 |
    |
|
|
 Soorya Performing Arts presents 17th American Natya Festival June 12 - 14, 2026 St Louis, MO June 4, 2026 The festival is a celebration of Indian dance traditions featuring Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kuchipudi, dance dramas, folk dances, and innovative choreographic works presented by acclaimed artists from across the United States. The festival will also showcase the finalists of American Natya Idol 2026, the classical Indian dance competition recognizing exceptional young talent in the US.  FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2026 Welcome dances by Soorya Performing Arts Kuchipudi by Meera Rathnagiri (Wilmington, DE) Kathak Performances by Shila Mehta (New Jersey / Mumbai) Thematic Bharatanatyam by the Students of Vinita Subramanyam (Austin, TX) Andhra Natyam by Upasana School of Dance (O'Fallon, MO) SATURDAY, JUNE 13, 2026 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM: American Natya Idol 2026 Competition 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM • ZERO - Historical Dance Drama by Prasanna Kasthuri (Ballwin, MO) • Finding Joy - Creative Dance Drama by Surabhi Bharadwaj (San Francisco, CA) • Venkateshwara Vaibhavam - Mythological Dance Drama by Pallavi Madabhushi (Charlotte, NC) Honoring a Legacy of Artistic Excellence A special ceremony recognizing individuals whose lifelong commitment to dance, teaching, and cultural preservation continues to inspire future generations. Lifetime Achievement Honoree • Guru Shivagami Vanka (Portland, OR) Distinguished Service Honorees • Guru Pallavi Madabhushi (Charlotte, NC) • Guru Surabhi Bharadwaj (San Francisco, CA) • Soujanya Madhusudhan (Atlanta, GA) SUNDAY, JUNE 14, 2026 7:30 AM - 1:00 PM: American Natya Idol 2026 Competition 2:30 PM - 7:30 PM • Ghungroo - Experimental Dance Production by Samanvita Kasthuri (New York, NY) • Agni Kusuma - Intriguing Dance Drama by Soujanya Madhusudhan (Atlanta, GA) • Navarasa Ramayana - Epic Dance Production by Sudha Raghuram (Montgomery, AL) • Group Dances by the Students of Anil Karunakaran (Topeka, KS) • Folk India - A Collaborative Celebration featuring multiple folk dance groups from St. Louis and surrounding regions - Thangaat group of dancers, Karnataka Kolata Group, Punjabi Bhangra and Assamese Bihu performances More info: natya.org |
