Company’s maiden event to benefit two charity homes

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A THREE-HOUR Deepavali Nite 2009, featuring performances by several local Indian artistes and dance groups, was held in the name of charity at the PJ Civic Centre recently.

The event, organised by the newly formed Swan Stage Productions, received encouraging response from the Indian community with an attendance of more than 500.

Backstage: Some of the dancers and performers posing for a photo in the dressing room backstage

This was a creditable achievement for Swan Stage Productions, which was formed on July 31 this year.

All proceeds from the event will be given to two homes – Pusat Jagaan Kanak-Kanak Kurang Upaya Kirtarsh in Bukit Beruntung, Rawang, and Sincere Care Home in Kajang.

Organising committee spokesman Muniandy Ponnusamy said the company comprised volunteer musicians, dancers and artistes and its aim was to provide an avenue for local artistes and showcase their talents and contribute to charitable homes and humanitarian organisations.

“There are very talented local artistes around who can be nurtured, but many are left behind.

“Most of us have full-time jobs, and as volunteers, we are not here to make a profit. We just want to enjoy ourselves.

“We want to give back to the community by utilising our musical skills and talents, and by providing a platform for talented local musicians,” he said.

Mesmerising: An Asthana Arts dancer performing a traditional dance on stage.

The audience was first entertained with traditional Indian dances, music and a skit.

The vibrant red, blue, green lighting on the stage added to the presentation of the dancers in traditional costumes.

The crowd was serenaded with old classic songs like Om Shanti Om, performed by Manimaran, as well as some modern songs, including a Michael Jackson medley performed by Asthana Arts.

At the start of the event, emcees Sivabalan and Yoges told the audience that they were in for an entertaining night.

Kicking off the evening, Yoges teamed up with Alinda to render Nan Sirithal/Dhinam Deepavali, and they were followed by Sivakumar and Manimaran, who sang a duet on Hare Hare Sambo.

Dhilip then sang Meendum Meendum, after which the Asthana Arts performers took to the stage with their combination of traditional and modern dance.

Among the other artistes who performed that night were Dhilip, Shila, Aru, Kalai and Uthay.

The night ended with the song Vellei Pookal, which was presented by all the artistes together.