DANZVivek Kinra an Absolutely Positively Wellingtonian
Internationally-renowned dancer, choreographer and teacher to earns APW award
Vivek Kinra's lifetime commitment to his art has been recognised by the Wellington City Council, when he is given an Absolutely Positively Wellingtonian Award.
Vivek Kinra is a dancer, choreographer and teacher of the Indian classical dance form, Bharata-Natyam.
Since 1990, Vivek has been teaching Indian dance, in Wellington. In 1992, he established the New Zealand Academy of Bharata-Natyam and is its Artistic Director. The Academy is recognised for both the quality of its instruction and the number of keen students of all ages.
He was made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the 2010 Queen's Birthday honours for his huge contribution to the New Zealand dance scene.
Vivek has worked with the New Zealand School of Dance, the New Zealand Drama School, Victoria University of Wellington Music Department and the Royal New Zealand Ballet, among others.
Mayor Celia Wade-Brown says: “Vivek is a cultural ambassador whose creative work plays an important role in teaching other Wellingtonians about the value and beauty of Indian culture.
“Vivek’s productions are outstanding, as reflected in the complimentary reviews he consistently receives.”
The APW Awards are a way for the Council to honour members of the community who have made outstanding or lengthy contributions to the Capital and its people.