Rasarang School of Performing Arts Inc

Overview

Rasarang School of Performing Arts Inc. is a nonprofit organization established in 1997 with the mission to introduce traditional Indian dances to audiences in the United States. The school combines ethnic and modern dance genres, creating a unique style of presentation.

Founding and Leadership

The school was founded by renowned dancer Guru Poornima Risbud. Poornima is trained in Bharatanatyam by Guru Nirmala Manjunath of Bengaluru, India, and in Kathak by the legendary Guru Dr. Maya Rao. She has earned the title of Vidwat in Bharatanatyam and has choreographed and performed in numerous solo dance recitals both in India and the U.S.

Programs and Achievements

Under Guru Poornima's guidance, Rasarang has nurtured many students who have completed their Rangapravesha, a significant milestone marking the culmination of their initial dance training. Some students have also successfully completed the Samved's Elementary Level Examination in Bharatanatyam.

Rasarang's artistic director, Poornima Risbud, conceptualized and choreographed productions such as Abhignana Shakuntalam, which received critical acclaim in the New England area. This dance drama was based on the original Sanskrit epic by Mahakavi Kalidas and featured music composed by Praveen D. Rao from Bengaluru, India.

Artistic Contributions

The school's artistic contributions are further enhanced by Shachi Risbud, who was trained by her mother, Guru Poornima Risbud. Shachi combines Bharatanatyam, folk styles, and Western dance styles like Ballet, Lyric, Jazz, and Tap. She has successfully created unique fusion items and helps choreograph many Rasarang productions.

Style and Innovation

Rasarang is distinguished by its fusion of traditional Bharatanatyam with modern and ethnic genres of dance. This distinctive style has helped it evolve into a major dance school in the New England region. Each composition is carefully crafted with intricate choreography, thematic costumes, and suitable stage effects, blending traditional Indian classical and folk music with world music.

Financial Overview

As of 2014, Rasarang School of Performing Arts Inc. reported a revenue of $31,900 and expenses of $21,500, with total assets of $45,200 and no liabilities recorded[5].

Conclusion

Rasarang School of Performing Arts Inc. continues to play a vital role in bringing traditional Indian arts to the U.S., fostering cultural appreciation and artistic innovation through dance.