Flutes at Dawn

The Mission: INSPIRE! EDUCATE! CELEBRATE!

Founded by wife-and-husband duo Karlies Kelley and Kiran Vedula in 2021, Flutes at Dawn aims to uplift underserved and marginalized people and art forms by fostering cross-cultural understanding through high-quality arts experiences, education, and support.

Their work honors indigenous/ancestral teachings from a variety of global traditions, including their own (Panama and India, respectively), while using Hip Hop culture and technology to apply those teachings in a post-modern, post-COVID, virtual world.

The title of the residency, “Good News,” takes its name from an album Kiran wrote (to be released in 2024) and a show he and Karlies premiered last year at South Milwaukee Performing Arts Center. “Good News’ ‘ serves as a poignant reminder of the core elements of our humanity – our innate need and right to love, to express freely, and to hope for a brighter future.

It’s time to get together and remember who we are. Let’s find that sense of belonging, a sense of home, and heal through the spirit of JOY! Tell me something GOOD!

Flutes at Dawn will host a series of public programs during their residency including:

Masterclass: “Panamanian Rhythms”
Saturday, November 4 |  1-3 PM

A 2-hour drum and dance class open to all led by Karlies Kelley and Andy Miller. 

 

Community Conversation: “Screen Time”
Saturday, November 18 | 2 – 4 PM
A community conversation about social media and mental health moderated by Kiran Vedula.

This event will include a panel of guest speakers as well as creative activities and breakout groups designed to help us connect with each other in real life and discuss feelings and issues that we don’t always have the outlet for.

Masterclass: “Be Organic”
Saturday, December 2 | 3-6 PM
Learn production techniques for enhancing freedom and creativity. This session will include a presentation from Kiran Vedula and a critique space where attendees can share works in progress and get feedback.

 

Thank you to the many supporters who made this residency possible, especially the Ruth Foundation for the Arts.