Embodied Leadership: Bhavas, Somatics, and Restorative Practice with Soni Dasmohapatra provided by the MacEwan Arts and Culture Management Department

Explore a transformative approach to arts leadership through the lens of the Natya Shastra’s bhavas (emotional states) and somatic-based restorative dispute models. This interactive workshop invites participants to connect ancient performance theory with contemporary leadership and restorative relational practices. Participants will engage in movement, reflection, and dialogue to cultivate emotional intelligence, deepen relational awareness, and imagine new ways of leading of self and leading collaboratively. Grounded in equity and care, this session offers tools to navigate tension, build trust, and lead with authenticity in creative and community-centered environments. No prior experience in somatics or performance required.

This workshop is provided by MacEwan Arts and Culture Management Department

Workshop Focus for Age Group: All ages

Workshop Provider: Soni Dasmohapatra
Soni Dasmohapatra is an interdisciplinary arts leader, facilitator, and researcher whose work bridges performance, cultural theory, and community care. She is an assistant professor in Arts and Cultural management at MacEwan University. Drawing from her academic role, post secondary education, South Asian heritage and training in somatic and restorative practices, she explores leadership through embodied knowledge, emotional intelligence, and collective healing. At NextFest Edmonton, Soni presents a workshop rooted in the Natya Shastra’s bhavas and restorative relational models, offering participants tools to lead with authenticity and navigate discomfort with care. Her practice centers equity, relational trust, and transformative collaboration in creative spaces, inviting emerging participants to reimagine personal leadership and shared emotional and cultural wisdom. Check Soni out online at www.sonidasmohapatra.com