Created by Aditya Prakash and co-written and directed by dancer/choreographer Mythili Prakash, ROOM-i-Nation weaves together the threads of Karnatik classical music with the history of Asian immigration and stories of identity and belonging to offer a nuanced take on navigating two worlds.
ROOM-i-Nation brings to life Aditya’s 2023 album ISOLASHUN (New Amsterdam Records), using live music, a soundscape, an Akram Khan dance film made specifically for the project, video projection, and personal stories to illuminate the immigrant and diasporic experience and offer a hopeful look at bridging cultures, generations, and musical traditions. ROOM-i-Nation invites us all to reflect on our stories of belonging and authenticity.
The project draws from Aditya's experiences growing up in Los Angeles, training in India, performing from a young age, and his deep engagement with Karnatik music and contemporary sounds. His narrative is one of discovery, challenging traditional boundaries while embracing a complex identity. It's an acknowledgment of the richness that comes from embracing our multifaceted selves and the art that emerges from this acceptance.