The Shantanand Festival of Arts (SFA) first debuted in 2014 as a multicultural event showcasing the rich tapestry of dance, music, and cultural diversity. Over the years, SFA has grown into a platform for celebrating heritage and artistic expression, featuring remarkable productions such as ‘CSK’ in 2014 and ‘Legacy’ in 2022. Each edition continues to highlight the festival’s commitment to creativity and cultural exploration.
Each performance at the Shantanand Festival of Arts (SFA) serves as an opportunity to reconnect with our roots, nurture emerging talent, and honor the cultural legacy of Swamiji. Over the years, the festival has evolved into a significant platform, celebrating Malaysia’s diverse cultural heritage while featuring acclaimed artists from both local and international stages.
Through its workshops, performances, and interactive sessions, SFA not only plays a vital role in preserving performing, visual, and culinary arts but also encourages young people to actively engage with the arts and contribute to shaping Malaysia’s cultural identity. Each year, SFA adopts unique themes, transforming it into an inclusive event that highlights Malaysia’s rich cultural diversity while positioning the country as a hub for arts and tourism.
Theme : Echoes Of The Past
This year’s Shantanand Festival of Arts (SFA), hosted by The Temple of Fine Arts, will captivate audiences from November 29th to December 1st, 2024. Held at the Shantanand Auditorium in Kuala Lumpur, SFA 2024 will explore the timeless epic of the Ramayana through a series of performances, workshops, and cultural showcases, featuring the main production, “I AM RA.”
The event, scheduled from November 29 to December 1, 2024, will include workshops, a Showcase Series, a production, and a Gala Dinner. This year’s edition brings the timeless epic ‘Ramayana’ to life, offering a captivating blend of storytelling, music, and dance for a rich and immersive experience.
Feature Production: I AM RA
“I AM RA,” a bold and reimagined telling of the Indian classic Ramayana, takes audiences on an emotional journey through the eyes of Ravana, the epic’s legendary antagonist. Moving beyond traditional portrayals of Ravana as merely a “villain,” this production delves into his complex personality, exploring themes of power, loyalty, and conflict. Presented as a journey through Ravana’s final moments, “I AM RA” reveals the layers of this often misunderstood character, offering viewers a glimpse into the humanity that lies beyond his reputation as a demon king.
The production runs for three consecutive evenings:
Dates: November 29 – December 1, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM
Location: Shantanand Auditorium, Kuala Lumpur
Workshop Series :
As part of SFA 2024, participants can engage in a series of immersive workshops:
Ramayana-Themed Arts and Crafts Workshop
By: Deepa Rajendra
When: November 30 & December 1, 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
Location: Darpana
This hands-on workshop explores characters and scenes from the Ramayana through visual art forms. Participants will learn traditional Indian art techniques and create pieces inspired by key characters and symbols from the epic.
Hanuman Zapin Workshop
By: Mohd Hazlami bin Harun
When: November 30 & December 1, 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
Location: Salangai
This workshop merges the heroic tales of Hanuman with Zapin, a traditional Malay dance. Participants will learn the fundamentals of Zapin dance while embodying the dynamic character of Hanuman, showcasing the intersection of mythological storytelling and cultural dance.
Theatre and Storytelling Workshop: Exploring the Ramayana
By: Lam Ghooi Ket
When: November 30 & December 1, 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Location: Kanagasabai
This theatre workshop delves into the Ramayana’s characters and moral complexities, allowing participants to bring this ancient tale to life through dramatic expression, voice, and movement.
Showcase Series:
Rama Rasa Kaavyam (Melodies of Ramayana)
Date: Saturday, 30th November 2024
Time: 10:00 AM
By: Sampagodu S Vighnaraja
Venue: Shantanand Auditorium
Shri Sampagodu S Vighnaraja is a renowned Karnatak vocalist, flautist, slide guitarist, composer, and teacher. Beginning his music journey at age 5, he has performed internationally for over three decades. Founder of the Surya Global Music Academy in Bangalore, Vighnaraja has trained students for over 20 years. He is also known for modifying the slide guitar, naming it the Sumukha Veena, and holds prestigious titles such as “Asthana Vidwan” of Sringeri and Hariharapura, along with numerous awards.
Ramayana Rahasyam (Secret Stories of Ramayana)
Date: Sunday, 1st December 2024
Time: 10:00 AM
By: Vinay Varanasi
Venue: Shantanand Auditorium
Vinay Varanasi, a kathakar since 2019, has delivered over 105 storytelling sessions, often collaborating with musicians, dancers, and artists. He has performed at prestigious venues like the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Center and curated over 45 productions blending storytelling with music and dance. Vinay’s approach goes beyond retelling; his immersive storytelling style offers reflective experiences that delve into themes from India’s rich cultural traditions.
Gala Dinner at Annalakshmi followed by feature production :
The event will also feature a Gala Dinner on either November 30 or December 1, 2024, showcasing a Ramayana-inspired culinary experience. Guests will be treated to a thoughtfully crafted menu that draws inspiration from the rich flavors and narratives of the ‘Ramayana’. Tables for the Gala Dinner can be reserved with a minimum donation across four categories, providing an opportunity for attendees to support the arts in a way that aligns with their preferences.
In addition, tickets for the production are available on a ‘pay what you wish’ basis, with free seating for all attendees, allowing everyone the chance to enjoy this exceptional show while contributing at a level that suits their personal preference.
For tickets and further details on the event schedule, please visit sfa.tfa.org.my or contact the office at +603-2274 3709.
Contact:
SFA team at Temple of Fine Arts Kuala Lumpur
Phone: +603-2274 3709
Email: sfa@tfa.org.my
Website: sfa.tfa.org.my
Facebook : Shantanand Festival Of Arts
Instagram : sfa_kl
All the information and images are provided by Temple of Fine Arts.
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