The Future School of Performing Arts officially opened its doors on August 21, 2024, marking a significant milestone in the cultural and educational landscape of Goa. The launch event, held at the school’s state-of-the-art campus, was attended by a distinguished gathering of musicians, music educators, theatre personalities, designers, and other members of the arts community. The overwhelming response from the attendees underscored the excitement surrounding this new institution dedicated to nurturing the next generation of creative talent, states a press release.
Co-Founder Antara Ashra set the tone for the evening with an inspiring address, sharing her vision for the Future School of Performing Arts in Goa. She emphasized the school’s commitment to creating a world-class environment where young artists can flourish, drawing on the rich cultural heritage of Goa while also embracing global perspectives. “Our goal is to build a community where creativity is not just encouraged but celebrated, where students are equipped with the skills and confidence to pursue their passions and make their mark on the world,” Ashra stated.
Following Ashra’s address, Chief Academic Officer Nilesh Thomas provided an insightful overview of the school’s academic structure and philosophy. He highlighted the unique blend of traditional and contemporary teaching methods that define the school’s curriculum, designed to offer students a comprehensive and immersive learning experience. “We are here to push boundaries, to challenge conventional approaches to arts education, and to prepare our students for the evolving demands of the creative industries,” Thomas explained.
A key highlight of the evening was the announcement of the school’s Artistic Advisory Council (AAC), composed of leading figures in education, arts, and industry. This council will play a crucial role in guiding the Future School of Performing Arts as it seeks to remain at the forefront of arts education and extend its impact beyond the classroom to the broader community.
The inaugural members of the AAC include:
Aditya Chowgule: A third-generation leader from the Chowgule family and director at Chowgule and Company Private Limited, Aditya is a passionate advocate for art and culture. His family’s dedication to education and support for young creative talents is reflected in initiatives like the Chowgule Centre for Creative Arts and partnerships with the Future School of Performing Arts.
Nitin Chandy: A musician and sound engineer with a deep commitment to music education, Nitin co-founded the True School of Music in Mumbai and served as CTO of Blue Frog. His extensive experience has been instrumental in developing the Future School of Performing Arts’ cutting-edge facilities in Goa.
Vinesh Iyer: An architect, designer, art & music curator/Producer and co-founder of Ideas Boutique,
Art Escape, The Live Music Project (TLMP) Live Festivals & Inspire Trust. Vinesh brings over 25 years of experience in urban planning, sustainable architecture, and community development.
His efforts to bring high-quality art, music, festivals and creative workshops to Goa last 15 years have significantly enriched the local cultural scene.
Lester Rodrigues: A musician and entrepreneur, Lester is the founder of the bands Forefront and A26, as well as the owner of GROOVE BOX. Known for his dedication to teamwork and discipline, Lester supports musicians through platforms like the Goa Entertainment Association (GEA) where he served as past president and www.sellmygear.in where musicians can buy and sell used Gear.
Troy Furtado: A pioneering DJ and founder of Just Audio, Troy is an expert in acoustic design and soundproofing. His mentorship has been invaluable in shaping the Future School of Performing Arts.
The event also featured a show-stopping performance by W.I.S.H, India’s first mainstream all-girl pop band in over 20 years. Consisting of members Riya, Simran, Zoe, and Suchita, the band delivered a high-energy set that left the audience spellbound. The intricate choreography, combined with powerful vocal performances, set a new standard for live music in Goa.
Following the performance, CAO Nilesh Thomas hosted a panel discussion with the band, exploring their individual journeys as musicians and artists, as well as their experiences with formal music and dance education. The conversation provided valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of pursuing a career in the arts, resonating deeply with the audience.
As the evening drew to a close, attendees had the opportunity to interact with the Future School team and the band members, leaving with a sense of awe and excitement about the future of arts education in Goa. The launch of the Future School of Performing Arts marks a new chapter for the creative community, promising to inspire and cultivate the talents of tomorrow.
