Immigrant stories are not often heard and understood. Their struggles are not done when they move to a new country. Rather, they often just begin with adjustment to language and culture, changes in lifestyle and economic status, discrimination, separation from family, and much more.
HOME: Where Do I Belong? is a short dance film project that listens to these stories, distills their emotional essence, and presents them through Bharata Natyam dance gestures and movement to music, rhythm, and to the actual voices of immigrants. Individuals who have immigrated to our local Austin community are featured in the film to bring these stories to life.
Two film shoots have been completed and we are now in post-production. This phase includes film editing, recording of musical score, and adding finishing touches. These are really the actions that take the most time and expense to complete. Editing video footage is a time consuming task and requires a skilled editor at the helm. Music is such an integral part of the film since we have dance and movement. To keep this essential aspect at the highest quality, it is important to rent a sound studio and recording engineer to record the musicians professionally.
Your contribution to this project, which has been my passion for the past year, would make the difference in completing this project. Any amount would help--big or small. Whatever feels right for you we graciously accept. You would be helping to amplify those voices that are not often heard. And done in an artistic medium that can reach wide audiences through film festivals and screenings.
When you donate you will receive updates on how the film is progressing and eventually will be able to attend an online screening and meet the cast and crew virtually for an online chat. We hope you will join us.
