About the Teacher
Sasikala Penumarthi is one of the most accomplished disciples of Padma Bhushan Guru Vempati Chinna Satyam. She has found a unique place as a vigorous and spirited exponent of Kuchipudi dance in the lineage of her guru.
Her art is an eloquent tribute to the impact of her Guru on her vision and sensibility. Endowed with a rare blend of intuition and intellect, she has evolved over the years an excellent command over technique.
Performance Experience
Sasikala was introduced to Kuchipudi dance dramas in 1976 as a participant in the invocation dance of Chandalika. Since then, she has excelled in both solo and ensemble performances.
Her roles have included Sri Lakshmi and Padmavathi in Srinivasa Kalyanam, Satyabhama in Sri Krishna Parijatham, Chandalika in Chandalika, Dakshayani in Hara Vilasam, Vishwa Mohini in Ksheera Sagara Madhanam, Ahalya in Ramayanam, and Parvathi in Ardhanareeswara.
International Tours & Recognition
Sasikala has toured extensively throughout India, the United States, USSR, and Europe, performing as a leading artist in many of Dr. Vempati Chinna Satyam’s ballets.
In 1993, she performed at the prestigious Khajuraho Dance Festival by invitation from the Madhya Pradesh Kala Parishad.
Founder & Educator
In 1997, Sasikala founded the Academy of Kuchipudi Dance to pursue artistic excellence and propagate the art form in the United States.
She received the Master Artist award from the Georgia Arts Council and serves as an Artist Affiliate at Emory University, teaching Kuchipudi dance and presenting lectures and demonstrations.
She has trained 45 students to complete their Rangapravesam and continues to produce major dance ballets involving live orchestra and guest experts.