From the Indo-Canadian Telegram:
In May and June, as the annual recital approached, Guru Shanta Ponnudurai and visiting instructor Pooja Kulkarni from Ontario taught master classes at India School of Dance, Music & Theatre (ISDMT) in Winnipeg.
An evaluation of the dance curriculum in Bharatanatyam and Kathak also took place. According to executive director Pamela Rebello, the project, entitled “Restore, Renew & Recreate,” lived up to its name by restoring the stamina and funds for dance and music, renewing the passion for the whole genre of dance from classical to Bollywood, and recreating new items. It was a modern fusion of yoga and classical traditions, while also introducing classes from the popular Odissi school of eastern India, taught by Anna Verbytska.
The annual recital took place on June 18 at the Gas Station Arts Centre, with more than 100 students showing the talent they have honed at India School. The recital, organized through the efforts of music consultants, teachers, and management, demonstrated the high standards that India School has strived to maintain, despite periods of closure mandated by provincial health authorities during the pandemic.
The Management Committee of ISDMT dedicated the event to all fathers of families, patrons, and guardians who believed and supported India School during the crisis.
In her welcome address, Minister Rochelle Squires acknowledged the important role of India School over four decades in making Manitoba the cultural capital and economic engine that welcomes newcomers.
Former MP Judy Wasylycia-Leis, who has attended many of the school’s recitals, talked about the transformative power of the arts. Wasylycia-Leis and Squires have followed the progress of India School and helped ensure that it maintains its standards and is true to its mission to promote the arts to all Manitobans through inclusivity and diversity.
ISDMT students and teachers will be performers at the India and Tamil pavilions, and guest performers at various other Folklorama venues in August.
India School opens for the next academic year on September 9 and 10 at 479 St. Mary’s Road.
