Tibetan Dancers at CSB

ST. JOSEPH, Minn. - The Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA) will present a dance concert on Thursday, Oct. 2, at 7:30 p.m. at the College of Saint Benedict's Benedicta Arts Center Auditorium.

The Tibetan dancers' visit to CSB and Saint John's University affirms the long-term relationship both campuses enjoy with the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan community.

The TIPA was founded in India in August of 1959 following the flight into exile of the Dalai Lama and 100,000 refugees. Tibetans sought means to preserve their cultural identity, and so TIPA was founded in Kalimpong, India, not far from the Tibetan border. This was the first of various institutions to be established by His Holiness the Dalai Lama's government-in-exile. The new company brings together the talents of both professional and skilled amateur performers. TIPA has also established a research section for the collection of traditional songs, dances and varieties of acting methods. TIPA not only performs Tibetan dance, but they will be showcasing Tibetan costumes and music as well.

The TIPA is being brought to Minnesota by the Tibetan American Foundation of Minnesota.

The event is being organized by the CSB/SJU Asian Student Association, which serves as an educational resource in promoting Asia's cultural heritage and tradition, the CSB/SJU Asian Studies program, and the CSB/SJU Asian Studies Planning Steering Committee.

Tickets are on sale now through the Benedicta Arts Center Ticket Office. Tickets are $1 for CSB/SJU students and $3 for general admission.

All tickets can be ordered by phone at (320) 363-5777 or they can be purchased on campus at the Benedicta Arts Center Ticket Office. For other information about the performance call (320) 363-5777 or Kolleen Kellom at (320) 363-5879.