CHICAGO - Mandala South Asian Performing Arts, which connects audiences and students with the vibrancy, flavors, and colors of the performing arts traditions of South Asia, presents musicians Sonny with Riyaaz Qawwali (above R, photo courtesy of artist) and Seaux Chill (above L, photo courtesy of artist) in At Crossroads: Qawwali & Gospel, a performance integrating Black American gospel music with South Asian Qawwali, a devotional musical tradition rooted in Sufi Islam. The free performance takes place Friday, November 8, 7–9 p.m. at the Madden Theatre, 171 Chicago Avenue, Naperville. This program expands upon initial work that was supported by a 2023 Joyce Award.

 

Drawing on the complex history of cultural exchange between South Asian and Black communities, the artists are collaborating on improvised music that highlights parallels between the two genres while celebrating their distinct historic roots, bridging communities and cultures.

 

This performance expands upon a previous music composition, which was the culmination of workshops and conversations that invited community members to make connections across their unique linguistic, musical, and faith traditions. Participants explored the complexities and inherited histories of Chicago’s cultural and neighborhood relationships throughout the project, creating opportunities for learning, reconciliation, and solidarity across different immigrant and diasporic backgrounds.

 

Shared Mandala Executive Artistic Director Pranita Nayar, “This exciting collaboration, which features a unique weaving of music representing different Chicago BIPOC artists, allows us to present cultural understanding and acceptance through the Mandala South Asian lens. And with support from SECA (special events community arts) funds from the City of Naperville, we can continue to build bridges and deepen understanding between different Chicago communities.”

 

Mandala South Asian Performing Arts presents

At Crossroads: Qawwali & Gospel

Friday, November 8, 7–9 p.m. at 

the Madden Theatre, 171 Chicago Avenue, Naperville.

Admission is free.

 

All programming is subject to change.

 

Mandala South Asian Performing Arts is a MacArthur Award-winning organization founded by Executive Artistic Director Pranita Nayar. From classical to contemporary, Mandala connects audiences and students with the vibrancy of the performing arts traditions of South Asia. Mandala offers powerful engagement with specialized artists and educators who represent diverse ethnic, geographical, linguistic, cultural, and gender identities. Mandala South Asian Performing Arts is supported by The Richard Driehaus Foundation, the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelly Foundation, Chicago Community Trust, the Illinois Arts Council Agency, and The Field Foundation.