“As Indian-American women working in an intergenerational creative partnership, we feel a dual responsibility to honor the traditions and wisdom of our birthplace while evolving them to new circumstances/places. We see Bharatanatyam as a dynamic, living tradition and potent tool to examine the contemporary human experience.”
Ranee and Aparna Ramaswamy's Ragamala Dance Company is the embodiment of an immigrant story. We are a woman-led, family-run organization driven by artistic excellence. Through the South Indian dance form of Bharatanatyam, Ragamala’s work—on stage, in the community, and educating the next generation—exemplifies the intercultural identity of millions. At home in Minneapolis/St.Paul and on tour worldwide, we welcome challenging modern dialogues that lead to a shared sense of humanity. Ragamala is committed to the idea that, while history is time bound, the stories we tell each other—through emotions and imagination—are timeless.
Founded in 1992 by Ranee Ramaswamy, Ragamala is nationally recognized for multidisciplinary performance works and extensive community engagement and educational programs. Since 2002, the company has been under the leadership of Artistic Directors/choreographers Ranee and Aparna Ramaswamy (mother and daughter). In 2017, Ashwini Ramaswamy joined her mother and sister in the company’s leadership as Choreographic Associate.
Ranee and Aparna are recipients of Guggenheim Fellowships and Doris Duke Performing Artist Awards, National Dance Project Creation awards, among others. Their performances have been presented widely nationally and internationally, from the Joyce Theater and Kennedy Center to the National Centre for Performing Arts in Mumbai. Their choreographic work has been commissioned by many, including the Kennedy Center, Lincoln Center, Walker Art Center, American Dance Festival, and the Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi.
Dance Managers Collective's Imagine Dance Festival,
January 6-10, 2021
Now taking reservations
Ranee & Aparna Ramaswamy's Fires of Varanasi: Friday, January 8, 12:00pm-12:30pm
Attend this event
Ashwini Ramaswamy's Let the Crows Come: Friday, January 8, 12:30-1:00pm
Attend this event
For the Stage
Engagement Offerings
Ragamala Dance Company is represented by Elsie Management: Laura Colby, President.