Drawing on the complex history of cultural exchange between South Asian and Black communities, the artists are collaborating on improvised music that highlights parallels between the two genres while celebrating their distinct historic roots, bridging communities and cultures.
This performance expands upon a previous music composition, which was the culmination of workshops and conversations that invited community members to make connections across their unique linguistic, musical, and faith traditions. Participants explored the complexities and inherited histories of Chicago’s cultural and neighborhood relationships throughout the project, creating opportunities for learning, reconciliation, and solidarity across different immigrant and diasporic backgrounds.
“This exciting collaboration, which features a unique weaving of music representing different Chicago BIPOC artists, allows us to present cultural understanding and acceptance through the Mandala South Asian lens,” noted Mandala Executive Artistic Director Pranita Nayar. “And with support from SECA (Special Events Community Arts) funds from the City of Naperville, we can continue to build bridges and deepen understanding between different Chicago communities.”
All programming is subject to change. For general information, visit mandalaarts.org.
