Trained in Indian Classical Dances- Bharatnatyam and Kathak in addition to Modern and Yoga
Whether performing in her own work or for others, whether it’s a serious performance or one filled with humor, it’s all about spreading positivity and empowerment. As a dancemaker, she aims in creating experiences bridging the ancient and contemporary while uplifting marginalized voices. Her choreography is a hybrid movement form that fuses techniques of Bharatnatyam and Kathak with other movement influences, text and technology.
Two Recent Fun acting projects- A solo Dance-based Play ‘Nyra’s Dreams’ in Chicago with Prop Thtr and Playing ‘Novecento’ (Novecento: Pianist by Alessandro Baricco) with the Scharniertheater in Germany
Teaching Artist
Teaching? Yep, she’s got over a decade of turning dance novices into rhythm rockstars. Her teaching mantra? A bit of discipline, a pinch of fluidity, and a whole lot of joy. Easy, right?
As an actor, filmmaker, dancer and choreographer, she has performed in India, US and Europe. In her current hometown of Chicago, she has performed and presented her work at various events, venues and festivals, such as Athenaeum Theatre, Harper College, Chicago Cultural Center, Depaul University, Dance Chicago Festivals, High Concept Labs, Loyola University, The Mccormick Center, Lions Club 100th Anniversary, Columbia College Chicago, Newport Theater, Dominican University as well as has created work for numerous independent performers and artists.
Shoot Shalaka a message at [email protected] for workshops or performances. Oh, and did we mention she’s not just a dance wizard? She’s represented by Susan Acuña with Encore Talent for acting and voiceover.