KALA The Arts is a leading dance organisation specialising in the Odissi South Asian dance form.

Based in Basingstoke and operating since 1999, the organisation was founded by Sushmita Pati, an international Odissi artist, choreographer and now artistic director of Kala The Arts. 

Kala works with local, national and international artists to create innovative and engaging South Asian dance and music.

The company creates new professional pieces of work and tour arts venues, outdoor spaces and festivals.

The organisation is also an established arts in education charity working with professional artists to provide educational workshops, residencies and classes. 

Kala the Arts run an active community programme in Hampshire and beyond and work together with local partners to promote diversity, integration and encourage community cohesion. It is also a member of the Basingstoke Multicultural Forum.

The organisation strives for excellence and creativity in South Asian dance, music and other related arts through high quality performances and productions and developmental projects such as residencies, long-term community workshops, nurturing local talent by offering scholarships, and training opportunities for all age groups and skills levels. 

Through education, Kala the Arts aims to encourage awareness of South Asian dance and music and present it in such a way that it is relevant to life in Britain today. 

Tto join Kala the Arts on their journey, as a volunteer, sponsor or fundraiser email admin@kalathearts.co.uk.

Kala run regular classes in dance forms, music and drumming at The Vyne School on Saturdays from 9.30am to 1pm.

For more information, go to kalathearts.co.uk.