Supporting Illinois' Arts Sector

Natya Dance Theatre is committed to the preservation and innovation of Bharatanatyam (classical Indian dance). For 50 years, the company has thrived under the leadership of Founder and Artistic Director Hema Rajagopalan and her daughter, Co-Artistic Director Krithika Rajagopalan. The company, founded in 1975 in Chicago, is a beacon of cultural exchange, emphasizing the traditional rigor of Bharatanatyam while also embracing other innovative directions. Together, Hema and Krithika lead Natya Dance Theatre through performance, teaching, community outreach, and a presenting series.

Natya Dance Theatre is marking their 50^th anniversary milestone with a series of 50 events that embody the theme of 'Tapestry,' reflecting the interwoven threads of cultures and art forms. Hema Rajagopalan shared how the celebrations began with a reunion performance by alumni at the North Shore Performing Arts Center and continued with performances in India and a premiere at Columbia College. "Our year is called ‘Suthra, from tradition to tapestry.'" Hema explains, highlighting the company's journey and cultural interweaving. An upcoming gala at the Rookery Building on November 15 will continue the anniversary celebrations, feature diverse performances, and "begin fundraising for the next fifty years," says Hema.

In addition to the gala, Natya Dance Theatre is engaging the community with 'Tapestry Tales,' a series of free performances in libraries, designed to bring dance and storytelling to diverse audiences. Krithika Rajagopalan emphasized the importance of these performances in fostering cultural understanding and collaboration. "It’s about bringing different cultures and art forms to the space and creating a dialogue," she noted. The company is also preparing for 14 "Arangetram" solo youth performances this summer. "These are a culmination of 10-12 years of rigorous training for young dancers, symbolizing their transition into accomplished artists," said Krithika. As Natya Dance Theatre continues to weave its artistic legacy, it remains dedicated to connecting communities through the universal language of dance.

Irene Hsiao is a dancer, writer, and multidisciplinary artist. Known for creating performances that engage with visual art in various public spaces, Irene has built a reputation for her site-specific and participatory performance installations. Her artistic journey includes significant residencies and fellowships, such as being the inaugural Artist in Residence at the Smart Museum of Art and a Radicle Resident at the Hyde Park Art Center. Irene's work continues to bridge cultural and artistic boundaries, drawing audiences into an interactive dialogue with her creative expressions. Irene is currently the first Artist in Residence at the Chinese Fine Arts Society.

On May 16, Irene will present Shared Earth Flowing Water: Seed, a free community event at the Set in Stone Gathering Space in the Burnham Wildlife Corridor. This program blends dance, music, and native prairie planting, offering a unique way to celebrate spring and AAPI Heritage Month. Created in partnership with the Chinese American Museum of Chicago, the Field Museum, and the Chicago Park District, the event invites participants to engage in a stewardship activity, enhancing their connection to the natural world. Attendees are encouraged to RSVP and come prepared for an afternoon of artistic and environmental exploration.

"Shared Earth Flowing Water is a series dedicated to peace, community, and the natural world," said Irene. "The series will continue this summer with the return of Guardians of the Earth and Sky, a music, dance, storytelling, and art-making adventure inspired by Chinese constellations."