Sophia Salingaros

🪔 About

Sophia Salingaros is a Bharatanatyam artist based in New York City, known for her precise nritta and sensitive abhinaya. Born in San Antonio, Texas, and of Belgian-Greek heritage, she began her Bharatanatyam training at the age of nine under Guru Dr. Sreedhara Akkihebbalu at Kaveri Natya Yoga, continuing for over 15 years. She furthered her intensive studies with Kalaimamani Rama Vaidyanathan from the age of 17, performing in Vaidyanathan's international tours of 'Vivartana'. Salingaros completed her Arangetram in 2010. Her career as a performer has taken her to prestigious venues nationally and internationally, including Navatman Drive East, IAAC Erasing Borders, Battery Dance Festival, Jacob's Pillow, Narada Gana Sabha, Vipanchee Arts Festival, World Government Summit in Dubai, and multiple performances at the United Nations and the NY Indian Embassy. In 2018, she was invited by the UAE Prime Minister to perform for Indian Prime Minister Modi at the World Government Summit. She is also a blossoming choreographer, presenting her own works and those of her guru. Salingaros is an ICCR Empaneled Artist, a 2017-2018 IndianRaga Fellow, and a 2013 YoungArts Finalist. She holds a degree in chemistry from Columbia University and is currently pursuing a medical degree at Weill Cornell Medical College, balancing her demanding professional life with her passion for dance. Her training in Carnatic music also enhances her connection to the art form. As a non-Indian dancer, she aims to demonstrate that art transcends cultural and religious boundaries. Awards & Honours: ICCR Empaneled Artist, IndianRaga Fellow (2017), IndianRaga Fellow (2018), YoungArts Finalist (2013).