Where Did It All Begin?

"  The reason I created Kinnaly is to provide a stage for young Lao Americans to experience their heritage. The Lao traditional dance is an excellent foundation for such exploration because it not only teaches patience, perseverance, respect, gentleness, gracefulness, and harmony with nature and people, all essential to the Lao way of life, it also introduces the melodious sounds of traditional music and the beauty of the Lao language through the lyrics. "

Pom Khampradith

Founder and Coach of Kinnaly Dance Troupe

The Kinnaly Dance Troupe, a program of the Lao Heritage Foundation, is comprised of over 20 second-generation Lao American youth (the youngest is 6-years-old and some have been dancing and performing for over 10 years) who come together to learn, preserve, promote, and share the art of Lao traditional music and dances in all its rigorous training and original choreographies.

What sets Kinnaly apart from the other Lao dance programs is that we provide ample room for artistic exploration by introducing more contemporary forms of Lao dances and music, as a way to bridge the students’ American reality and their Lao roots. This exercise has proven invaluable in their search for their Lao American cultural identity, and to develop their individuality and self-awareness.

To embrace performing talents of the students, and to experience Lao literature, we have expanded our repertoire to include skit performances based on traditional folk tales. These innovative exercises and activities uncovered a genuine interest and curiosity in the students about the rich culture of Laos .

Co-Founders Of Kinnaly

Amela "Kathy" Thaviseth

Phonetip Sivilay

"Growing up I've always been intrigued with my heritage. As a child, I was captured by the art of dancing when I watched a young performer display great elegance and passion in her movements and smile. Since then, I've continue to indulge myself in many aspects of Lao culture, customs and traditions. It's a pleasure to work with the upcoming generations, a gift to learn from the older generations, and an honor to promote/preserve for many more generations. I have come to learn that it is no longer an interest or a hobby but it has grown to become a love."

Latana "Jennifer" Thaviseth

"I started dancing because my mom wanted my sister and I to dance at a celebration honoring my grandmother. Ever since then, I just continued to dance and learn more about my culture."
 

Olivia Veravon Sengsisourith

"I started dancing at the age of 5. My aunt was a dancer in Vientiane and I was always anxious to learn as a young girl. My first performance ever was at a wedding with a total of 650 guests, I was so nervous! Cultural preservation has been my greatest motive."

Katherina "Poupée" Vongphrachanh

"My first performance was when I was in first grade performing for the royal family of Laos. Ever since then I've always had a passion to dance and perform and never stopped!"