Our People

Rita Mitra Mustaphi is a native of Kolkata, India. Under her direction, Katha Dance Theatre is distinguished by its impeccable technique, its capacity to expand the Indian classical Kathak dance vocabulary and realize new works, and its collaborations across disciplines. From 1987 to 2005, while promoting traditional Kathak dance through various dance dramas, she became interested in cross-cultural exploration through collaborations that she continues to pursue today. In her 30+ years as a professional dancer, she has choreographed more than 50 new works that performed locally, nationally and internationally.

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Chairperson of the Board of Directors of Katha Dance Theatre, Kaylan is the liaison between the company and the board. A native of India and one of the founding members of the company, Kalyan acts as the company’s financial director/producer. He works with the artists and board to carry out producing, presenting, and other special projects. He takes care of master schedule planning, staff development and hiring, financial management, and other administrative duties. Additionally, Kalyan records and edits all of KDT’s videography. He is very actively involved in the day-to-day operations and long-term well-being of the organization.