Nadanta’s 25th anniversary celebration
Celebrating 25 Years Of Nadanta
Nadanta’s 25 Anniversary gala was entitled “Celebrating 25 Years Of Dance”, and it certainly lived up to that billing. The performances were breathtaking in both beauty and scope, effectively evoking fond memories of the many original productions from which they were taken. The excitement in the hall, the music, the chance to renew old acquaintances and, of course, the food all contributed to an evening that will remain unequaled — at least until we celebrate Nadanta’s golden anniversary.
It was all there, from the fledgling performances on high school stages to today’s polished professional productions. Over the last quarter-century the Nadanta family has grown larger and more diverse, but not apart, and therein lies the real magic of Nadanta.
The truth is that Nadanta is about much, much more than dance, and so was this celebration. It was in fact, a demonstration of the powerful bond that exists between those who have performed with Nadanta over the years and between the performers and their audience. It was after all the performers, past and present, who turned an anniversary into a celebration and the mutual bond they share across the miles and the years that made it possible.
As always they were supported by the volunteers who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make every performance a success. They too are a vital part of the Nadanta family with a role that is all too easily overlooked amidst the glamour and excitement of the performance. But that was not the case on this night, because this was a celebration of the whole Nadanta family.
And there at the center of everything, doing her best to remain invisible as she always does, was Chaula Thacker, the founder, Artistic Director and ever present guiding spirit of Nadanta. It was her vision, her perseverance, her talent, and most of all her unconditional love, that turned a local dance company into a close knit family that literally spans the world.
Near the end of the evening, after recognizing volunteers, past and present board members, and others who had made special contributions to Nadanta’s success over the years Chaula was presented with a beautiful glass sculpture as a gesture of gratitude from all of the performers she has nurtured over the last 25 years. It was a fitting tribute, but in a larger sense the entire event was a tribute to Chaula Thacker.
It was after all her vision that planted the seed, and her nurturing hand that has guided the growth and blossoming of this marvelous phenomenon we call Nadanta. And, with that as prologue, the next quarter-century promises to be truly amazing. If you missed this anniversary, put the 50th in your appointment book right now!
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