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University Series to open new season with Sonali Skandan dance group

Sonali Skandan and Company

The 2015-2016 University Series presented by the SFA College of Fine Arts will open with Sonali Skandan and Company performing at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 17, in W.M. Turner Auditorium on the SFA campus.


NACOGDOCHES, Texas - The College of Fine Arts at Stephen F. Austin State University continues its tradition of bringing professional artists to East Texas, opening the 2015-2016 University Series with Sonali Skandan and Company at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 17, in W.M. Turner Auditorium on the SFA campus.

Sonali Skandan & Jiva Dance Company presents compelling and dynamic works based on the timeless idiom of Bharatanatyam. Jiva Dance sees the importance of preserving and promoting the traditional arts, yet also understands the need to incorporate innovative techniques to reach diverse audiences, according to John W. Goodall, associate dean for the College of Fine Arts.

"This company is comprised of exceptionally talented dancers all trained in the traditional and classic dance form of South India," Goodall said. "The company has performed at notable venues to tremendous audience acclaim. The repertoire ranges from highly traditional solo works to more versatile group items that highlight the evolving nature of the dance form."

Prior to the performance, Heather Samuelson, dance instructor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Science at SFA, will present a 7 p.m. informative talk in Griffith Gallery about the company. The gallery is located across the hall from Turner Auditorium, which is located in the Griffith Fine Arts Building, 2222 Alumni Drive.

The audience is invited back to the gallery for a post-performance reception to meet the performers and to honor the event's corporate sponsor, Commercial Bank of Texas.

Single event ticket prices are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors and $10 for students/youth. For tickets or more information, visit www.finearts.sfasu.edu or call the Fine Arts Box Office at (936) 468-6407 or (888) 240-ARTS.

SFA students may purchase Rush tickets for $3 during regular office hours starting Monday, Sept. 14. Students must present a valid SFA ID for purchase and at the door on event night.

For more information on the 2015-2016 University Series, visit finearts.sfasu.edu.