This is why, through her performing arts school Unique Arts Academy, she will be putting on a one-off show to raise funds to help four of her students with their education.
Held at Kompleks JKKN Negeri Sembilan, “Warna Maalaa” will involve 60 students from the academy in a showcase of traditional and contemporary dance and music, from the traditional Minangkabau folk theatre known as “randai” to a Chinese fan dance.
The event in Seremban next weekend will also feature odissi dancer Aishee Ganguly in a special guest performance.
Speaking with FMT, Savathri explained that not everyone who attends her classes comes from affluent backgrounds. As such, some parents are unable to pay for their children’s education.
“Where are they going to find the money? It’s sad to see financial constraints become an obstacle for young ones to pursue their dreams,” she said.
Funds raised will go towards helping two students from a local university with their tuition fees, and to purchase laptops and other essential items for the two others who are in secondary school.
She further explained that attire for traditional dance can be expensive, which is why some of the money will be used to buy Bharatanatyam sarees that cost about RM1,500 each.
“Two of my students have been wearing cheap sarees with poor threadwork for their past performances,” added Savithri, who is the academy’s founder and artistic director.
Unique Arts Academy trains children and adults in traditional Indian and contemporary dance. Classes to learn instruments such as the sitar, harmonium or folk drum are also available.
Savithri, who is trained in Bharatanatyam and various ethnic dances herself, said she was happy to be hosting her first multicultural performance since the pandemic.
“I’m pleasantly surprised that all my students have returned for lessons,” she shared. “In fact, they were the ones who suggested we do a performance to raise funds for the four who need financial support.”
So if you’re in Seremban next weekend, make a date to enjoy this Unique performance and contribute towards a worthy cause.
To book your tickets, contact Savithri via her Facebook profile. Also learn more about Unique Arts Academy here.
‘Warna Maalaa’
When:
Sunday, May 7 @ 5pm
Where:
Kompleks JKKN Negeri Sembilan,
Sungai Ujong,
Seremban, Negeri Sembilan
Ticket price:
RM50 (minimum donation for charity)