Exciting Indian Dance Company Performs in Ohio
by Kathy Burgan

International Music and Performing Arts in Communities Tour Presents Ragamala Music and Dance Theater

Classical Indian dance will unite with original contemporary choreography as part of a performance series in Ohio communities this fall featuring Ragamala Music and Dance Theater. Ragamala is touring the state as part of the Ohio Arts Council’s International Music and Performing Arts in Communities Tour (IMPACT).

Ragamala will perform six shows, November 6-16, 2006. Performance locations include Nelsonville, Springfield, Greenville, Sidney, Akron and Elyria. All performances are free and open to the public.

IMPACT is presented by the Ohio Arts Council (OAC) in partnership with the Ohio Arts Presenters Network (OAPN) and Arts Midwest.

Founded in 1992 by Artistic Director/Choreographer, Ranee Ramaswamy, Ragamala Music and Dance Theater is dedicated to preserving the South Indian classical dance form of Bharatanatyam while using it as a springboard for innovative choreography. Ragamala's vibrant classical work and pioneering cross-cultural collaborations demonstrate the versatility, depth and contemporary vitality of Bharatanatyam to diverse audiences.

Ragamala’s 2006 performance, From Temple to Theatre, takes audiences on a journey through time, presenting both classical Bharatanatyam and highlights of the company’s stunning contemporary collaborations. Set to diverse musical influences, from the soulful classical music of India to the thundering drums of Japan, from stirring original poetry to the á capella vocalizations of Zap Mama, this program is sure to please all audiences.

IMPACT will feature educational outreach programs in addition to the performances. For more information visit the Ohio Arts Council Web site at www.oac.state.oh.us, call 614/466-2613 or e-mail kathy.cain@oac.state.oh.us.

Since 1998, IMPACT has been bringing international artists to Ohio each year for a statewide tour of places of worship. IMPACT is designed to bring the best international performing arts groups to audiences in the midwest.

The Ohio Arts Council and the Ohio Arts Presenters Network began their unique partnership in 1998 with the presentation of Barocco Andino, a Chilean music ensemble. In following years, the OAC brought international artists Ragamala Music and Dance Theater, Viva Quetzal, Cuerdas de Fuego, Real Tango, Eblen Macari Trio and El Arranque Tango Orchestra to Ohio for a statewide tour of churches and synagogues. In 2004, the OAC initiated the Summer IMPACT with performances of Kahurangi Maori Dance Theatre at festivals throughout the state and continued with America Indigena in 2005 and Spoken Hand Percussion Orchestra in 2006.

The Ohio Arts Council is a state agency that funds and supports quality arts experiences to strengthen Ohio communities culturally, educationally and economically.

Background on Indian Dance
Ragamala Music and Dance Theater Performer Bios
Complete Performance Schedule

HI RESOLUTION IMAGES AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

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