Experience India: Artist Talk

Strategic Community Alliance presents Experience India: Artist Talk on April 10 from 4-6pm at Brick City Center for the Arts with accomplished Indian dancer & choreographer, Binal Wala!

Ms. Binal Wala will introduce the audience to the history and evolution of the Indian classical dance form of Bharatnatyam. Through the artist’s personal journey of learning, practicing, mastering and teaching this ancient art form for past three decades, the audience will appreciate Bharatnatyam’s grace, elegance, and ability to express ideas and stories. The artist will describe how she creates stories through the myriad patterns of this visually aesthetic dance using its core components – “Bhava” (expression), “Ragam” (melody), “Talam” (rhythm), and “Natyam” (drama). This is a rare and unique opportunity for the residents of Ocala and surrounding communities to learn about the authentic Indian classical art form from one the top artists of Bharatnatyam Indian classical dance from India.

About the Artist: Ms. Binal Wala, an accomplished performer, choreographer, and teacher of the Indian classical dance form of Bharatnatyam, comes to Florida from India as SCA’s Artist in Residence. She holds a Master’s degree in Bharatnatyam and is currently pursuing her doctorate (Ph.D.). As the director of Kalamandir Performing Arts, a dance academy in Ahmedabad, India, she has trained more than 5000 students. Ms. Wala has creatively introduced modern stories and languages to the vocabulary of a traditional form of dance to reach diverse audiences. She has presented solo dance recitals, workshops, and lecture demonstrations of Bharatnatyam classical dance in India and abroad. She has been honored with titles of “NrityaSadhak” (Devotee of Dance), Nritya Bhushan (Adornment of Dance), and Naari Shakti (Power of Women) for her dedication and contribution to Bharatnatyam. One of her greatest attributes is her ability to bring to life the stories, poems, mythology, history, and culture of India through her dance. She also performs semiclassical and folk dances of India.

This event is part of SCA Artist in Residence 2024 program sponsored by the LILAC Foundation, Marion Cultural Alliance, and the Ocala Municipal Arts Commission.