Ananya Dance Theatre

Ananya Dance Theatre Introduce

In the vibrant heart of the Twin Cities, where community and culture intertwine, Ananya Dance Theatre stands out as a powerful force for both artistic expression and social change. This St. Paul-based company is far more than just a dance studio; it is a community-based ensemble of professional artists who use the medium of contemporary dance to explore and amplify stories of justice and liberation. Founded in 2004, Ananya Dance Theatre is comprised of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) women and femme artists who are committed to creating original dance theater that challenges hierarchies and inspires hope. Their work is a unique and compelling blend of artistic rigor and deep social consciousness, making it a truly one-of-a-kind institution in the Minnesota arts landscape.

Ananya Dance Theatre’s foundational philosophy is built on the idea that dance can be a powerful tool for civic engagement and community organizing. Their artistic approach is rooted in a signature dance language called Yorchhā, a contemporary form that intertwines principles from the traditional Indian dance form Odissi, the martial art form Chhau, and Vinyasa yoga. This fusion creates a dynamic and expressive vocabulary that is used to tell stories that are both deeply personal and universally resonant. The company’s creative process, known as Shawngrām ("resistance" in Bangla), is a community-embedded methodology that centers the experiences and dreams of BIPOC women and femmes around the globe. For locals, this means that attending a performance or taking a class at Ananya Dance Theatre is an opportunity to not only witness stunning artistry but also to engage with profound and important conversations about social justice.

The studio space for Ananya Dance Theatre, known as the Shawngrām Institute for Performance & Social Justice, is located at 1197 University Ave W, St Paul, MN 55104. This address places it conveniently within the Twin Cities metro area, making it accessible for residents from various neighborhoods, including Frogtown, Little Africa, Hamline-Midway, and Historic Rondo. This intentional location highlights the company's commitment to community, situating them at the confluence of diverse and vibrant communities. When considering accessibility, Ananya Dance Theatre ensures a welcoming environment for all. They provide a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, which makes it easier for attendees and students with mobility needs to visit the space. For those arriving by car, the parking situation is designed to be as hassle-free as possible. It is also important to note that the company pays tribute to Mni Sota Makoce, the unceded homelands of the Dakota Oyate and the Ojibwe peoples, and stands in solidarity with Native and Black communities. This commitment to honoring the land and its original inhabitants is deeply woven into their practice, from their mission to the pranam, a salutation to the earth that opens and closes all of their practices.

The services offered by Ananya Dance Theatre are diverse and reflect their core mission of art and social justice. While they are a professional performing arts company, they also offer classes and workshops for the public. These classes are a great way for individuals to engage directly with the company's unique movement language and philosophy. Ananya Dance Theatre’s offerings are considered "good for kids" and also cater to a diverse range of ages and skill levels, from beginners to advanced dancers. They make participation convenient, accepting both credit and debit cards for payments.

Here is a summary of the types of classes and services they provide:

Adult lessons: Classes designed for adult learners of all backgrounds and experiences.
Advanced classes: For those with significant dance experience who want to dive deeper into the Yorchhā technique.
Beginner's classes: A welcoming entry point for new dancers to learn the fundamentals of their unique style.
Choreography classes: Focused on the creative process of developing movement and narrative.
Intermediate classes: A progressive level for students to build on their foundational skills.
Private lessons: One-on-one instruction for a more personalized learning experience.
Youth classes: Engaging programs that are specifically tailored for younger dancers.

The standout features and highlights of Ananya Dance Theatre go far beyond their physical location. At the heart of their identity is their mission to create "social justice choreography." They are known for their compelling, original evening-length works that are conceptualized and created by Artistic Director Ananya Chatterjea and developed with a range of collaborating artists and designers. These productions often premiere at the O'Shaughnessy Auditorium at St. Catherine University, a prominent venue for dance in St. Paul. A key highlight is the company’s emphasis on community-embedded creative processes. They conduct extensive research and dialogue with communities to develop the themes for their performances, and they often invite audiences to participate in public art gatherings and workshops.

Ananya Dance Theatre is also recognized for its commitment to uplifting BIPOC artists. Their ensemble is composed of women and femmes of color, and their NextGen Choreolab program specifically supports early-career BIPOC choreographers in the development of their work. This focus on mentorship and artist support contributes to a more equitable and diverse arts ecosystem in Minnesota. The studio itself, the Shawngrām Institute, is a highlight, serving not just as a rehearsal space but as a community center for various gatherings and events that align with their social justice mission. The company’s work has received national and international recognition, with performances touring to various venues and festivals, which is a testament to the high quality and universal appeal of their art. The reviews of their performances often highlight their ability to create powerful emotional connections and to transform difficult subjects like trauma and rage into expressions of power and light.

For those interested in learning more or connecting with Ananya Dance Theatre, here is their contact information:

Address: 1197 University Ave W, St Paul, MN 55104, USA

Phone: (651) 650-3564

Mobile Phone: +1 651-650-3564

What truly makes Ananya Dance Theatre a remarkable choice for Minnesotans is its profound commitment to integrating artistic excellence with a mission of social justice. Choosing to engage with this company—whether by taking a class or attending a performance—is a decision to support a local institution that is actively working to make a positive impact on the world. The company's unique Yorchhā dance vocabulary provides a fresh and powerful way to experience movement, while their community-based creative process ensures that their art is always rooted in real-life stories and struggles. This is a space where dance is not just for entertainment; it is a form of activism, a way of building solidarity, and a means of healing. For parents, it offers a wonderful opportunity for their children to learn a beautiful art form within an environment that teaches important values of social responsibility and inclusivity. For adults, it provides a chance to not only learn how to dance but to be part of a meaningful movement. Ananya Dance Theatre is a beacon of creativity, compassion, and change in the Twin Cities, and its work is a powerful reminder of how art can shape a better, more just world.