Group will celebrate cultures

A nonprofit group with ties in Columbia County plan to put cultures from throughout the world on display June 21.

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Caravan, a theater group consisting of members from India, Pakistan, Burma, Vietnam and other parts of South Asia, will hold the inaugural "C Planet-08: A Summer Festival of Rhythm and Dance" at 7 p.m. inside Augusta State University's Grover C. Maxwell Performing Arts Theater.

The majority of the group's 45 members live in Columbia County, said Ravi Verma, event organizer and president of Caravan.

"There are many different cultures, but the idea behind this project was to at least bring every country together," Verma said, "and to show the people of their community and our community that there are different dances and cultures around the world."

Verma said 14 countries will be represented at the festival, including Thailand, Germany, Ireland and the Philippines, among others. Each continent has at least two representatives.

Performers range in age from 6 to 76, and each dancer will don festive costumes, Verma said, adding that the show will provide the audience with a snapshot of each country's culture, economy and demographics.

Before the show begins, an exhibit will start at 5 p.m. featuring art, poetry, artifacts and entertainment for children.

The goal, Verma said, is to promote diversity, unity and the group's message: share arts, share cultures, share lives.

"I think this is the best way to share," Verma said.

Admission costs $15; tickets for students, active military members and their families cost $7; and children get in free. All funds raised will benefit Safe Homes of Augusta.

Though tickets can be purchased at the door, they are selling quickly and Verma encourages people to buy tickets in advance.

To purchase tickets, visit http://tickets.aug.edu or call (706) 495-6837.

For information, contact Verma at theatercaravan@gmail.com.