bio
About the artist
Meet Shanti Lalita, a dynamic interdisciplinary artist who seamlessly blends the worlds of cello performance and spoken word poetry. Born and raised in Puerto Rico, Shanti draws inspiration from their queer nonbinary Afro-Caribbean identity and the rich cultural heritage of their home. Shanti honed their craft at the Conservatory of Music of Puerto Rico and later at the University of Puerto Rico, where they received a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies - Creative Writing.
Shanti has since taken their unique blend of sound improvisation and spoken word poetry on a worldwide tour, captivating audiences with their creative exploration of identity and diaspora. Shanti’s performances are a powerful fusion of classical music training and contemporary expression, weaving together traditional and experimental elements to create a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
With their passion for social justice and community building, Shanti uses their art as a platform for activism and education. Their performances serve as a reminder of the importance of representation and inclusivity in the arts, and their work continues to inspire and empower marginalized communities around the world.
PERFORMANCE
COLLABORATION
PERFORMANCE
Combining cello improvisation, spoken word, theater and performance art creates a unique and dynamic performance experience. The emotive qualities of the cello, paired with the power of spoken word and theatrical elements, adds layers of meaning and depth to the performance. The improvisational nature of the cello playing allows for a flu
Combining cello improvisation, spoken word, theater and performance art creates a unique and dynamic performance experience. The emotive qualities of the cello, paired with the power of spoken word and theatrical elements, adds layers of meaning and depth to the performance. The improvisational nature of the cello playing allows for a fluid and spontaneous connection between the performers and the audience, while the incorporation of performance art brings a visual element to the performance. The result is a multidimensional and captivating performance that blurs the boundaries between music, theater and art.
EDUCATION
COLLABORATION
PERFORMANCE
Being an artist educator is a rewarding and fulfilling experience, allowing for the sharing of knowledge and creativity with others. As a teaching artist with Sonic Arts for All, I have the opportunity to work with students in alternative music education, introducing them to new ways of thinking about and creating music. In addition, as a
Being an artist educator is a rewarding and fulfilling experience, allowing for the sharing of knowledge and creativity with others. As a teaching artist with Sonic Arts for All, I have the opportunity to work with students in alternative music education, introducing them to new ways of thinking about and creating music. In addition, as a creative writing workshop facilitator at the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo de Puerto Rico, I am able to guide individuals in exploring their own personal stories and experiences through the medium of writing. Together, these experiences allow me to combine my passion for art and education, and have a positive impact on the lives of my students.
COLLABORATION
COLLABORATION
COLLABORATION
Lalita Productions is a platform for independent artists in Puerto Rico, creating space and organizing events for them to showcase their work. The company is dedicated to fostering a community of artists and providing opportunities for collaboration and growth. They have worked in theater with notable artists such as Deborah Hunt and Y No
Lalita Productions is a platform for independent artists in Puerto Rico, creating space and organizing events for them to showcase their work. The company is dedicated to fostering a community of artists and providing opportunities for collaboration and growth. They have worked in theater with notable artists such as Deborah Hunt and Y No Habia Luz, in performance with groups like Poncili Creación and Papo Colo and have created soundtracks for short films and campaigns. Lalita Productions is a force of creativity, fostering the development of local artists and providing opportunities for them to share their work.
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