Peoria’s UTSAV Diwali Gala offered audiences a spectacular evening of culture and celebration with the “Alice in Wonderland: Reimagined” show, presented by the Prasanna Jeer Dance Academy (PJDA) and the Indo-American Society of Peoria (IASP).
The show was bold in its sound and color, transporting audiences to a world where time stood still with the retelling of a classic tale. It followed three heroines as they challenged the Red Queen and tried to restore balance to a realm caught in a loop. It featured over 100 performers, and many audience members described it as a fun blend of classic and modern dance styles, with an anonymous observer commenting that it had “beautiful choreography and a script full of mystery and myth.”
The evening began with the theater doors opening at 4:00 P.M., followed by the performance at 5:00 P.M. The opening moments were filled with detailed costumes and performances from PJDA dancers of all ages.
The evening began with the theater doors opening at 4:00 P.M., followed by the performance at 5:00 P.M. The opening moments were filled with detailed costumes and performances from PJDA dancers of all ages.
The event beautifully blended the missions of both organizations involved. PJ Dance Academy inspired the audience with its cultural storytelling through dance, while IASP brought more light to Indian culture. Overall, the UTSAV Diwali Gala was a celebration of unity and the vibrant festival of Diwali, and left audiences entertained and connected to the Peoria Indian community.
Eagle's Eye Newspaper 