The Indo-American Association Announces its 2022 Performance Lineup
Grammy Award winning composer, Ricky Kej, will commence the program on March 12.
Image: Big Oak Tree Media
The Bayou City is a burgeoning hub for Indian culture. In 2019, the US Census estimated a population of 150,000 residents in the Greater Houston area. After two long years, empty venue seats are ready to once again be filled by patrons of Indian music and performing arts. Starting March 12 through October, the Indo-American Association Houston will open its doors for live performances and continue its mission to preserve Indian culture in Houston communities.
“We’re going in with a lot of hopeful thinking,” Sheetal Bedi, Indo-American Association Executive Director tells Houstonia. “We have really jumped back into the deep waters from no shows and now live programming.”
The IAA’s 2022 schedule includes nine in-person events, and several virtual performances that will premiere on the IAA’s YouTube channel. Composer and environmentalist Ricky Kej is set to kick off the season with The One Earth Concert at the Wortham Center. Bedi hopes that Houstonians not only support the organization but support the environmental cause that Kej makes a priority in his music.
“For me, music and the environment have been the two pillars that have dictated my whole life,” Kej tells Houstonia. Originally from North Carolina, Kej believes it is a responsibility to celebrate and respect nature. He’s taken his talents around the world, including performing at the United Nations, and has served as a UNCCD Land Ambassador.
In addition to Kej, other highlights of the 2022 season will include:
- Award-winning singer and songwriter, Abby V, who will perform North Indian, Carnatic, and other musical genres on Friday, April 29 at 8pm at the Stafford Centre for Performing Arts Theater.
- Queen of the Flute, Rasika Shekar will take you through a musical odyssey on Friday, May 20 at 8pm at the Wortham Center.
- Prepare to be captivated by the works of choreographer and Bharatanatyam dancer, Rukmini Vijaykumar on Friday, June 10 at 8pm at the Midtown Arts & Theater Center Houston.
- Celebrate India’s 75th Year of Independence with violinist and composer, Dr. L. Subramaniam as he leads the world premiere of Mahatma Symphony alongside the Houston Symphony on Saturday, August 6 at 7pm at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts.
For more information regarding all the upcoming events, click here.
