Lessons from My Mothers explores the intergenerational journey of South Asian immigrant women through Bharatanatyam, theater, and spoken word. 

Centered around a handwritten cookbook symbolizing resilience, adaptation, and identity, the work reflects on choices made by three women—Mother, Masi, and Kaki—as they navigate unfamiliar territory, sacrifice dreams, and rediscover joy in a new land. 

Narrated by a daughter confronting her own multicultural identity, the performance weaves personal and collective memory into a story of quiet courage and strength.

With a dynamic cast:

Concept, Choreography, Script, Direction: Sonali Skandan

Music: Rajkumar Bharathi with inputs by Bala Skandan and Shiv Subramaniam

Dancers/Creative Collaborators: Aparna Shankar, Rithika Ashok, Sonali Skandan

Rehearsal Director and Stage Manager/Creative Collaborator: Swati Seshadri

Sound Design: Sai Shravanam, Resound India

Creative Consultant: Sreelakshmy Govardhanan

Production/Light Design: Betsy Chester

Costume Design: Sonali Skandan

Narrator Voiceover: Jeevika Bhat

Major funding from The Guru Krupa Foundation

Additional project support from Dance/NYC, New Music USA, NYSCA, NYC Dept. of Cultural Affairs, MidAtlantic Arts Foundation

Seats are limited so grab your tickets early and secure a spot at our show!