RAGAMALA MUSIC AND DANCE THEATER

What our critics have to say:

“Ragamala’s work is, without exception, gorgeous, poetic, and revelatory ... their bodies bring Indian poetry to kinetic life.”
—Camille Lefevre, Minneapolis StarTribune

“The performers are masters of their art. This may be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Catch them while you can.”
—The Fringe Review, Edinburgh, Scotland

Ragamala's hallmark is to bring Bharatanatyam, the classical dance of South India, into conversation with diverse artists and art forms from around the world, and to explore its vast possibilities as it moves into the 21st century. At the same time, we remain steeped in tradition and committed to maintaining the richness and integrity of Bharatanatyam. Under the direction of mother and daughter Artistic Directors Ranee Ramaswamy and Aparna Ramaswamy, Ragamala is internationally recognized for its contemporary approach to this ancient art form.

What our audience members have to say:

“Wonderfully innovative and exquisite ... Brave and and highly successful.”

“Thank you for bringing so much beauty to the world!”

“Incredible and juicy and lush.”

Ragamala’s work encompasses:

• Large-scale productions in Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota—Most recently, Ragamala presented four sold-out performances of Dhvee (Duality) at the Walker Art Center’s McGuire Theater. Commissioned by the Walker and created in collaboration with the Çudamani ensemble of Bali, Indonesia, Dhvee featured a cast of over 20 artists from India, Indonesia, and the U.S.

• Extensive school and community outreach programs—Every year, Ragamala shares the rich arts and culture of India with over 10,000 students and adults through our customized programs for K-12 schools, universities, libraries, community centers, museums, senior citizens’ homes, places of worship, and corporate workplaces.

• Regional, national, and international touring—Over the past three years, we have shared our work with more than 25,000 people—in places like New York City; Washington, D.C.; Edinburgh, Scotland; and Nagoya, Japan. We are proud to act as ambassadors for our region, introducing audiences around the world to some of the high quality arts and culture Minnesota has to offer.

• A prestigious dance school in Minnesota—The Ragamala School offers students from age 7 to adult authentic training in Bharatanatyam, providing them the opportunity to experience the joy of movement and to immerse themselves in Indian culture through a high quality arts experience.