Kalapriya Center for Indian Performing Arts

- 2101 S Wabash Ave Suite 1, Chicago, IL 60616

The Kalapriya Center for Indian Performing Arts, an esteemed Asian-owned cultural institution in Chicago, serves as a vital bridge between the rich artistic traditions of South Asia and the diverse communities of Illinois. Since its founding, Kalapriya has been dedicated to preserving, promoting, and evolving the performing arts of India. It is much more than a studio; it is a dynamic foundation that offers a wide array of dance, music, and educational programs designed to celebrate and share the beauty of South Asian culture with people of all backgrounds.

Kalapriya's mission is to support and present high-caliber performance art and education. This is achieved through a multi-faceted approach that includes formal classes, public performances, community outreach, and collaborative projects. The center's programming goes beyond technical training, delving into the historical and philosophical contexts of the art forms, such as Bharata Natyam. As a result, students and audiences alike gain a deeper appreciation for the art and its cultural significance. The center is also deeply committed to social relevance, creating productions and programs that address contemporary issues through the lens of South Asian art and philosophy, fostering a space for dialogue and understanding.

Kalapriya Center for Indian Performing Arts is situated at 2101 S Wabash Ave Suite 1, Chicago, IL 60616, USA. Located in the city's South Loop, the center is easily accessible from various parts of Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. This vibrant urban setting places it in a prime location to serve a wide audience. For those traveling by car, there is paid street parking available in the vicinity. For those using public transportation, the center is conveniently located near major routes and stations, making it a simple destination to reach.

In a strong commitment to inclusivity, the center has made significant efforts to ensure its facilities are accessible to everyone. The building features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, as well as a wheelchair-accessible restroom and seating. This attention to detail ensures that all members of the community can comfortably and confidently participate in classes and events. Additionally, Kalapriya's dedication to creating a welcoming environment is evident in its amenities, which include a gender-neutral restroom, and its open and affirming atmosphere, identifying as an LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space. This focus on accessibility and inclusion makes Kalapriya a truly welcoming hub for all of Illinois’ diverse residents.

Kalapriya Center for Indian Performing Arts offers a comprehensive and diverse range of programs that extend beyond a traditional dance school. Their services cater to a wide audience, from young children to adults, and from casual learners to dedicated artists. The center is committed to providing a holistic cultural experience through its varied offerings.

• Onsite services: All classes and programs are held at their Chicago studio location.
• Cultural Education Programs: The center provides educational programming that includes visual arts, storytelling, and cultural history.
• Dance Classes: A wide range of dance classes are available, including Bollywood dance, Bharata Natyam, Kathak, and Odissi.
• Yoga: Offers yoga classes as part of its health and wellness programming.
• Music: Provides classes and workshops in Indian classical music.
• Summer Camps: Immersive programs for children during the summer break.
• Workshops: Hosts various workshops led by local, national, and international artists.
• Community Events and Festivals: Organizes and hosts events like the Annual Summer Mela, Holi, Diwali, and Navaratri, celebrating South Asian traditions.
• Community Outreach: The center actively collaborates with local organizations, schools, libraries, and senior centers to bring cultural programming to a wider audience throughout Chicago.
• Educational Programs: Provides K-12 in-school classes and assembly presentations, as well as corporate workshops.
• Dance Productions: The professional performance company produces high-caliber dance theatre performances and productions that are presented locally and internationally.

Kalapriya is distinguished by a number of key features that underscore its role as a leading cultural institution in Chicago. These highlights demonstrate the center's commitment to community engagement, artistic excellence, and social inclusivity.

• Identifies as Asian-owned: A proud Asian-owned business that supports and promotes Asian culture and entrepreneurship.
• Wheelchair Accessible: Features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, ensuring accessibility for all visitors.
• Inclusive Space: Proudly identifies as LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safe space, fostering an open and welcoming environment for everyone.
• Community Focus: The center's "Journey Through South Asia" program is a great example of its dedication to educational and community-focused initiatives, as noted in a customer review.
• Good for families and kids: Offers classes and programming that are suitable for all members of the family, as highlighted by a customer review.
• Diverse Offerings: Provides a wide range of cultural programs beyond just dance, including yoga, music, and literary arts.
• Collaborative Spirit: The center actively partners with other arts and community organizations, building bridges between different ethnic and cultural groups.
• Socially Conscious Art: Kalapriya creates productions that address important social justice and humanistic themes, using art as a vehicle for dialogue and positive change.

For class schedules, event information, or to inquire about their educational and outreach programs, you can reach out to the Kalapriya Center for Indian Performing Arts directly. Their team is dedicated to providing more information and assisting you with your needs.

Address: 2101 S Wabash Ave Suite 1, Chicago, IL 60616, USA

Phone: (312) 436-2789

For anyone in the Illinois region seeking a rich and meaningful cultural experience, Kalapriya Center for Indian Performing Arts is an exceptional choice. The center's commitment to both high-quality artistic instruction and broad community engagement sets it apart. The reviews from real customers highlight some of its most valuable aspects. One reviewer notes that it is "Great for Bollywood dance and yoga and other cultural education programming! Good for families." This simple but powerful statement confirms that the center offers a versatile and family-friendly environment, making it an ideal destination for parents and children alike. The variety of classes, from high-energy Bollywood to the serene practice of yoga, ensures there is something to appeal to a diverse set of interests.

Another compelling reason to choose Kalapriya is its dedication to community. The "Journey Through South Asia" program, praised by a customer as "wonderful," exemplifies the center's mission to educate and engage the public in a meaningful way. This is not just a place for classes; it's a place to learn about and connect with an entire culture. The center's proactive stance on inclusivity, evidenced by its wheelchair accessibility, gender-neutral restroom, and status as an LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space, makes it a welcoming and safe haven for everyone. This dedication to diversity and equity is a rare and admirable quality that makes Kalapriya more than just a place to learn dance—it's a place where individuals can find belonging, celebrate cultural heritage, and build bridges of understanding. Its blend of artistic excellence, community focus, and inclusive values makes Kalapriya Center for Indian Performing Arts a truly valuable asset to the Chicago community and a worthwhile choice for anyone looking to enrich their life through art and culture.

Kalapriya Center for Indian Performing Arts

2101 S Wabash Ave Suite 1, Chicago, IL 60616, USA