To be held in Manhattan on November 6th.
By The American Bazaar Staff
New York: Film director and producer Mira Nair will be the keynote speaker at Jiva Performing Arts’ (JPA) annual gala, to be held In Manhattan, on November 6th.
The annual gala will help support the organization’s efforts to create quality Indian classical music and dance programs in the New York City area. JPA plans also to introduce more classes and hire part-time teachers. The long-term goal is to secure dedicated studio and performance space to create a center for music and dance in New York City, according to a press release.
JPA (www.jivaperformingarts.org) was founded in 2007 by the husband and wife team of Indian classical dancer Sonali Skandan and Indian classical musician Bala Skandan. In its six-year history, it has organized numerous events that focus on the performing arts of India – from ongoing classes in dance and music, master level workshops by senior gurus, performances by renowned artists, as well as the creation of new artistic work to pass on the legacy of these rich art forms.
“Jiva was formed because we wanted to share the intense passion that we feel towards Indian Classical music and dance to the larger NYC community. We feel these art forms enhance our lives, adding beauty, depth and vitality. They have the power to touch one and all at the deepest level. They are timeless and have also evolved with time,” said JPA Artistic Director Sonali Skandan, in a statement.
JPA’s upcoming gala, to be held at the Congregation Rodeph Shalom, will feature live music by Jay Gandhi, Nitin Mitta and Bala Skandan as well as a Bharatanatyam performance by Jiva Dance. The evening will be hosted by comedian Dan Nainan. Catering will be provided by Bukhara Grill of NYC and music by Globe DJs.
Nair’s debut film Salaam Bombay! (1988), won the Golden Camera award at the Cannes Film Festival. She used the proceeds of the film to establish an organization for street children, called the Salaam Baalak Trust in India. In 2012, she was awarded India’s third highest civilian award, the Padma Bhushan.