In the heart of Singapore’s vibrant arts community stands Kavitha Krishnan, a woman whose life’s work is a testament to the transformative power of dance. More than just a celebrated performer, she has redefined the meaning of artistic expression by blending her deep passion for Bharatanatyam, her expertise as an occupational therapist, and her lifelong commitment to social causes.
Her journey is not just about the stage; it is about healing, building bridges, and empowering communities. With her co-founding of Maya Dance Theatre (MDT) in 2007 alongside Imran Manaff, Kavitha Krishnan set out to prove that dance can do more than entertain—it can challenge perceptions, address social issues, and inspire meaningful change.
Kavitha Krishnan: The Birth of Maya Dance Theatre – Art With a Purpose
Maya Dance Theatre was not created as another performance company. Instead, it was envisioned as a platform where art becomes a voice for the unheard. Under Kavitha Krishnan’s leadership, MDT has produced groundbreaking interdisciplinary works that shine a light on pressing social issues such as mental health, diversity, and inclusion.
Receiving the National Arts Council’s SEED Grant (2012–2015, 2015–2018), the company has consistently proven its value in Singapore’s cultural landscape. MDT’s motto, Arts for Social Cause, resonates deeply with Kavitha’s personal philosophy: that art is a medium not just to entertain, but to heal, provoke thought, and inspire empathy.
Diverse Abilities Dance Collective (DADC): Celebrating Differences
Perhaps Kavitha Krishnan’s most impactful initiative is the founding of the Diverse Abilities Dance Collective (DADC) in 2018. Here, dancers with Down Syndrome and other diverse abilities collaborate with professional dancers to create semi-professional performances.
DADC is more than a dance group; it is a movement that challenges stereotypes and proves that ability is not defined by limitation. Under Kavitha’s guidance, these dancers have taken their craft to prestigious platforms, including a full-length performance at the Saarang Festival in South India in 2020.
Her words echo with conviction: “Dance heals and empowers. It allows us to see beyond differences and recognize the beauty in every individual.”
Kavitha Krishnan: Dance as a Tool for Healing and Community Building
Long before founding MDT, Kavitha Krishnan worked as an occupational therapist with the Singapore Association for Mental Health. There, she witnessed firsthand the stigma attached to mental health. Struck by how society distanced itself from her clients, she staged a puppet show featuring them. What began as skepticism soon turned into acceptance as the community realized the humanity behind the stigma.
This early experience solidified her belief that the arts can dissolve barriers, foster understanding, and build connections where words often fail. It also inspired her lifelong mission of using performance as a bridge between communities.
International Reach and Pandemic Innovation
From 2002 to 2007, Kavitha Krishnan proudly represented Singapore in the ASEAN Contemporary Dance Production Realizing Rama, touring internationally and showcasing her fusion of tradition and contemporary artistry.
Even during the global pandemic, when stages went dark, Kavitha ensured that art found a way. DADC collaborated with international groups such as No Strings Attached (Australia) and Nalitari (Indonesia), presenting digital performances like SAME, SAME, which toured Australian and New Zealand online fringe festivals. These works not only connected audiences across borders but also proved that art transcends physical limitations.
Awards and Recognition
The impact of Kavitha Krishnan has not gone unnoticed. Among her many accolades are:
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Artistic Excellence Award from the late President S. R. Nathan
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Women with a Heart by Singapore Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (SICCI, 2019)
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Natya Kala Nipuna title by Bhaskar’s Academy (2022)
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Finalist of the Silent Hero Award (2022)
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