On Saturday, Aug. 31, the historic Sierra Madre Playhouse will resonate with the centuries-old traditions of Hindustani classical music as vocalist Gaayatri takes the stage, offering suburban Los Angeles a rare immersion into one of the world’s oldest vocal traditions.
The performance marks a significant milestone for the 99-seat theater, known for its diverse programming and intimate setting. Matt Cook, Artistic Director of Sierra Madre Playhouse, emphasized the venue’s mission.
“At Sierra Madre Playhouse, our mission is to present world-class artists at accessible prices, creating a diverse and inclusive cultural experience,” Cook said.
Gaayatri’s showcase will feature various Hindustani music styles, including ancient Vedic-era Dhrupad and Dhammar. The event holds particular significance as Gaayatri is the first pure vocalist of the Rampur-Maihar Senia gharana in seven generations, dating back to Mian Tansen and his daughter Saraswati in the 15th century. This performance marks a return to the vocal roots of this tradition, known primarily for its instrumental legacy.
“Audiences can expect an immersive experience that bridges the gap between meditation and concert performance,” Cook said. “The intimate setting of our theater, known for its excellent acoustics, provides a personal and immersive experience that is rare in larger venues.”
The performance reflects the evolving cultural landscape of suburban Los Angeles and a growing appetite for diverse artistic experiences. By presenting Hindustani classical music, Sierra Madre Playhouse aims to connect prominent artists with both existing fans and new audiences in Greater Los Angeles, including thousands who grew up with this music but rarely find local venues presenting it.
Cook noted that introducing this new genre has presented challenges, particularly in developing authentic relationships and communication strategies with a new audience base. However, the Hindustani music series has been met with great enthusiasm, often selling out weeks in advance.
The century-old Sierra Madre Playhouse, which has received multiple awards including Ovation Awards, NAACP Awards, and Los Angeles Times Critics’ Choice honors, continues to expand its repertoire. In 2023, it was named a leading ‘Nonprofit of the Year’ in the San Gabriel Valley by Rep. Judy Chu. The venue is housed in a historic building that has undergone various transformations since 1910, retaining its distinctive movie theater façade and marquee.
Tickets for the event range from $12 to $35 and are currently on sale.
For more information, call (626) 355-4318 or visit www.sierramadreplayhouse.org.
Sierra Madre Playhouse is located at 87 West Sierra Madre Blvd. in Sierra Madre.
