June 15, 2007

Indian-Fusion Dance Academy holds fundraiser for Propionic Acidemia Foundation

Indian-Fusion Dance Academy presented its first dance showcase in May at 'The Pointe' church main auditorium in Evergreen.

The free event was attended by almost 500 people and served as a fundraiser for the Propionic Acidemia Foundation, which is taking up the noble cause of finding a cure for the disorder Propionic Acidemia. At present there is no cure for this disorder.

Selvi Pragasam is the founder and instructor of Indian-Fusion Dance Academy, which teaches Indian classical, bollywood and folk dances. Pragasam’s son, Aidan, is afflicted by Propionic Acidemia and in an attempt to bring awareness and raise funds for the research, the event became her brainchild.

The evening started off with a semi-classical number performed by Pragasam and other dancers from the school. It was followed by children from the school’s level I class performing the Salaame Namaste's title song. This was followed by the toe tapping number 'Where is the party tonight' by the school’s level III class.

The fun continued with Bumbaroo, performed by the level I class, followed by the adult class performing for a medley of songs from the movie Paheli, Guru and Chup Chup Ke. They moved and grooved and went in and out of formations with ease, bringing in a new flavor to the Gujarati and Rajasthani folk dance.

The level II dance kids’ class later performed Dilwale Dulhania le Jayenge’s “Mehandi Laga Ke Rakhna” just prior to intermission.

The first number to lead off after the intermission was another beautiful Bumbaroo from another level I class of the dance school. Dhoom Mix was then performed by level III students, and brought everyone up dancing on their feet.

The grand finale was an exclusive Indian-fusion dance academy presentation. It was a combination of audio-visual and a solo performance by Pragasam. The audio-visual presentation was projected on three 40mm screens and was choreographed to the Krishna Nee Begane fusion song by colonial brothers. It highlighted the theme of diversity, peace and love. Pragasam's classical dance representation was unique and powerful, bringing the evening to an end.
The event raised over $3,000 for the foundation through donations, silent auction and food purchases. Elaina Jurecki, a well-known Kaiser Permanente nutritionist specializing in Propionic Acidemia, also gave a PowerPoint presentation, explaining the medical condition and why funds were necessary to do the research.

For further information on the dance school, please visit http://www.indian-fusiondance.com.