Facing East

Facing East was founded by John Wubbenhorst, a master flautist having the unique distinction of being a fluent virtuoso on both the Bansuri (bamboo flute) and Western flute.

The group enjoys the rare distinction of having successfully interwoven Indian classical music with Jazz, Western Classical, Middle Eastern and Celtic influences to create a sound that is original while remaining respectful of its sources.

In addition to their performances, members of Facing East also engage in conducting music workshops and seminars to educate the public about Indian melodies.

Dakshina

Dakshina/Daniel Phoenix Singh Dance Company, the D.C. based dance troupe, is an emerging dance company that performs and presents Indian dance forms, such as Bharata Natyam, and Modern dance, mirroring the multiple identities of second generation South Asians.

Dakshina, which means ‘offering’ in Sanskrit, engages in dance not only as a means for aesthetic and artistic growth but also as a vehicle for social change and community development. The company combines the arts with social justice issues both by incorporating the themes into their work and via partnerships with local community centers and schools.

Dakshina has won several accolades including ‘The Emerging Group’ and ‘Excellence in Costume Design’ awards at the 2008 Metro DC Dance awards. Additionally, the dancers of Dakshina have also received the prestigious National Endowment for the Arts award for their display of artistic excellence.