International Symposium at Sadlers Wells London on 23rd May 10-5pm

Forthcoming Symposium at Sadlers Wells in London on 23rd May 2026 on the topic “Bold ways of being South Asian: Choreography as Critical Intervention.“ We feel the urgency to gather artists, academics and funders to think through this topic because of the shrinking space for resistance in this the arts as it struggles to convey its importance as an instrumental wellbeing project. We are celebrating the national week of wellbeing through this: TICKETS

This symposium creates space where scholars, collaborators, composers, choreographers, curators, producers, funders, venues, organisations and artists can work together, making critical frameworks accessible and applicable to the ethos, vision, and practices of dance and music organisations across Britain.

At a moment when parts of Britain question whether multiculturalism has “weakened” national identity, our symposium calls for bold new ways to affirm the South Asian presence in British culture. The challenges faced by our cultural sector-racism, tokenism, invisibility, and structural inequities, environmental injustice-require a detailed response.

And so we do of course have very direct relevant experience of the issues faced by South Asian dance in the UK and of the challenges and opportunities which could be available to us.

We will have presentations from the Arts Council, academics who are devising new paradigms of belonging and artists, curators, producers,
arts organisations who contribute to a fairer, happier and more fulfilled society. We invite anyone who has thoughts, questions and changes to contribute to the open house we will facilitate. Overall, this event aims to add power and boldness to South Asian culture in Britain and the invitation is to join that movement.

The event will run from 10.00am to 5.00pm and so there will of course be many opportunities for people to ask questions and discuss the issues, as well as socialise and network.

Our mission in the symposium is to address the shared space and to think about South Asian dance critically in the dance industry. Dance scholars, have been studying the problems facing the sector for long and in touch with artists and organisations. Artists too are deeply reflective of the challenges they face in creating a daring piece that challenges and breaks many barriers.

This symposium is an invitation to anyone working in the creative sector. If you are interested and available, we would love to have you attend this day and be part of the symposium.

There is a very small cost of £20 or £15 concessions.

Please email office@kalathearts.co.uk if interested to find out more or purchase your tickets here: TICKETS