About Leela Fusion Dance
Leela Fusion Dance is a group that aims to blend Indian and Western culture through dance and music. Leela does a wide range of styles including but not limited to Bollywood, hip hop, contemporary, bhangra, garba, raas, sultry, bharatanatyam, giddha, kathak, and kuthu.
Performances
Leela performs at many venues on Lehigh's campus, the two largest being FUSION and Dancefest at the end of each semester. We also work closely with the South Asian Student Association (SASA) to promote Indian dance at events such as Lehigh Garba, the annual Diwali Show, Big Fat Desi Wedding, and Holi.
We also have the great opportunity to perform for large university-wide events including The Rally, International Bazaar, and Family & Founders Weekend.
How to Join
Leela takes new dancers at the beginning of every semester! Although we do utilize informal group auditions, we recognize that we do many different styles and people have different strengths. If a dancer successfully auditions into at least one of 5+ pieces per semester, they are considered a member of the team.
We are a group open to all levels of experience, beginner to advanced, for all Lehigh graduate and undergraduate students of any gender or identity. If you are unsure if Leela is right for you, please join us at one of our workshops or "Bring a Friend" practices, which we host ~3 times a semester.
Every dancer that joins our team is welcomed with open arms, regardless of previous experience or knowledge.
Within practice, we promote open communication and friendship. Our choreographers offer review sessions in and outside of practices, to ensure every dancer has their voice heard, and the help they need
Outside of practices, Leela acts as a support system for each member. To promote this environment, we host team bonding events and dinners throughout the year. Our favorites are Friendsgiving and Galentines!
Along with being a great creative outlet, our team offers a space for personal growth and accomplishment.
We have an executive board comprised of 4 members that gain experience in handling finances, budgeting, social media planning, content creation, event planning, and communication. Additionally, we offer members the opportunity to choreograph dances and lead practices, which build public speaking, mentorship, and decision-making skills. We do this with the hope that our dancers carry these talents into their future endeavors and careers.
