Indian Classical Night is a colorful showcase of the diverse cultural dances and musical talents present at the University as well as in the Charlottesville community. Hosted by the Society for Promotion of Indian Classical Music and Culture Among Youth and the Hindu Student Council, ICN 2015 anticipates a larger audience this year.
Arts & Entertainment sat down with SPICMACAY member and performer Seethal Jose and co-president of the Hindu Students Council Sapna Rao to hear what they had to say about this year’s ICN and what to expect.
Arts & Entertainment: What do SPICMACAY and HSC do, and what is ICN?
Sapna Rao: The Society for Promotion of Indian Classical Music and Culture Amongst Youth...is the University chapter of one of India’s foremost music non-profit organizations. Its objective is to bring the rich and diverse cultural heritage of India to communities across the world...In Spring 2014, SPICMACAY collaborated with Hindu Students Council and presented Indian Classical Night that showcased a variety of Indian classical performances by UVA and Charlottesville community [members]. The HSC puts on numerous large events during the year, including a Fall and Spring Garba, a Diwali Mela, Gandhi Benefit Dinner and a Holi celebration.
A&E: What are your expectations for ICN 2015?
SR: We hope to bring the same level of intimacy with the performers which made last year's event such a success...While the structure of this year's event will be the same, we are excited to be equipped with better sound and lighting resources so as to make the event even more enjoyable for the audience and performers alike.
Seethal Jose: The highlight of this year’s concert and the dance I am most looking forward to watching is that of Madhavi Reddy, who is a professional Bharatanatyam dancer from the Charlottesville area.
A&E: How will this year be different from last year?
SR: This year we are partnering up with The Jefferson-Madison Regional Library as a supplementary component of their Big Read endeavor.
SJ: Last year’s concert...lacked variety in terms of the performances...it mostly consisted of solo classical music. However, this year there is a wide range of programs, including two types of classical dances, Bharathanatyam and Kuchipudi, and more group musical performances, combining instrumental music with vocals.
A&E: Why should someone come to this event?
SR: For the food!...It is an exceptional opportunity for the community to view both young people and professional artists perform Indian classical music and dance in such an exciting and intimate setting.
SJ: Indian classical art is one of the oldest arts in the world...if you cannot travel to India to witness these local arts, this is the closest experience you can get.
Indian Classical Night will take place in the Chemistry Auditorium Mar. 28 at 6 p.m.
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