Dances of India

- 1201 N Warson Rd, St. Louis, MO 63132

Welcome to the captivating world of Dances of India, a unique and cherished cultural institution located right here in St. Louis, Missouri. More than just a performing arts group, Dances of India is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving, propagating, and performing the rich and ancient art of Indian classical dance. Founded in 1976 by the remarkable Asha Prem, this company has become a cornerstone of the St. Louis arts scene, known for its breathtaking performances that transport audiences to a world of intricate storytelling, vibrant costumes, and mesmerizing music.

The core philosophy of Dances of India is to share the "beauty and quality" of this wonderful art form with the community. Their performances are the result of years of dedication, where artists "have spent years mastering their craft." This commitment to excellence is palpable in every show, from the seamless execution of complex choreography by even the youngest dancers to the powerful and pure intention that the performers exude. As one awestruck attendee perfectly described, watching the dances feels like a "love letter to the universe," leaving you with a feeling that "my soul has just been polished."

Led by the "amazing teacher, choreographer, and dancer," Asha Prem, the company’s work is truly "exceptional." Her long-standing dedication to the art, including teaching Indian dance at Washington University in St. Louis for many years, has made her a great role model for countless individuals. The company’s productions are more than just entertainment; they are a celebration of culture and a bridge between worlds, inviting audiences to experience the "brilliant colors of the costumes and hypnotic quality of the music" in a truly "spellbinding" effect. For anyone in the Missouri region seeking a profound and beautiful cultural experience, Dances of India is an absolute must-see.

Dances of India is located at 1201 N Warson Rd, St. Louis, MO 63132, USA. This central St. Louis address makes the organization's location easily accessible to residents from across the metropolitan area. The prominent address on N Warson Rd ensures that visitors can find the location without difficulty, whether they are attending a class or an event.

Accessibility is an important consideration for the organization, demonstrating their commitment to being an inclusive and welcoming space for all members of the community. The facility features a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, which provides convenient and safe access for individuals with mobility challenges. This amenity ensures that everyone can attend and enjoy the performances and educational programs offered by Dances of India. This dedication to making the arts accessible to a broad audience reflects the organization's mission to share the beauty and joy of Indian dance with everyone in the St. Louis region.

Dances of India, while primarily known for its exceptional performances, also provides a range of services that extend into education and community engagement. Their offerings are designed to share the art of Indian dance with a wide audience.

• Dance Performances: The company is renowned for its annual productions, which are a culmination of the dancers' hard work and mastery of their craft. These performances, which have been running for over 45 years, are often themed around classic Indian myths and legends, brought to life through intricate choreography and music.
• Dance Education: The company has a strong educational component, with its founder having taught Indian dance for many years. It is a place where students of all ages, including young children, can learn the traditional dance forms. Reviews mention that the "younger dancers execute the intricate choreography with ease," indicating a high quality of instruction.
• Guest Artist Collaborations: Dances of India brings in guest artists from around the world and within the United States to perform in their shows. This collaboration provides unique artistic experiences and exposes the St. Louis community to diverse interpretations of Indian dance.
• Community Outreach: As a non-profit organization, Dances of India is committed to enriching the cultural landscape of St. Louis. Their mission is to share the "rich art, dance and culture of India to the community," suggesting a variety of outreach programs and educational initiatives.

Several key features and highlights set Dances of India apart as a truly unique and exceptional cultural institution in St. Louis. These attributes contribute to its reputation as a must-see local attraction.

• Outstanding Artistic Quality: The performances are consistently praised for their "beauty and quality." The dancers are described as having spent "years mastering their craft," and their ability to execute "intricate choreography with ease" is a testament to the high standards of the organization.
• Inspirational Leadership: The founder, Asha Prem, is a central feature of the company's success. She is lauded as an "amazing teacher, choreographer, and dancer" and a "great role model." Her leadership is the driving force behind the company's "truly exceptional" performances.
• Profound Emotional and Spiritual Impact: A powerful highlight of the performances is the emotional and spiritual effect they have on the audience. A reviewer noted that the "goodness and joy is fierce and contagious" and that they "always leave feeling like my soul has just been polished." This speaks to the depth and purity of the art form as presented by the company.
• Inclusive for All Ages: The organization is "Good for kids," indicating that their performances and possibly their educational programs are suitable and engaging for young audiences. The fact that young dancers perform with such skill is a testament to their dedication to youth development.
• Accessibility: The wheelchair-accessible parking lot is an important highlight, ensuring that the organization is welcoming to all community members and making it easier for people with diverse needs to attend events.

For those interested in attending a performance or learning more about the organization, you can contact Dances of India at the following:

Address: 1201 N Warson Rd, St. Louis, MO 63132, USA

Phone: (314) 997-0911

Choosing a cultural experience in the St. Louis area is a delightful decision, and Dances of India is an unparalleled choice for anyone seeking something truly special and enriching. What makes it worth choosing is its unwavering commitment to artistic excellence and its ability to touch the soul of its audience. The reviews from real customers provide a powerful testament to this. The fact that a long-time attendee still feels "awestruck by the beauty and quality of the performance" shows that the company consistently delivers an exceptional experience that stands the test of time.

Furthermore, the organization’s mission goes beyond a simple performance. It serves as a vital love letter to the universe, sharing a beautiful cultural tradition and fostering a sense of joy and goodness that is "fierce and contagious." The leadership of Asha Prem, a renowned and respected figure in the community, guarantees a level of professionalism and artistic integrity that is second to none. The company's focus on youth development, with performances that are "good for kids" and feature intricate choreography by young dancers, makes it an excellent option for families. By choosing to attend a Dances of India performance, you are not just watching a show; you are participating in a cultural event that promises to be a memorable, beautiful, and profoundly moving experience.

Dances of India

1201 N Warson Rd, St. Louis, MO 63132, USA