Introduction

In August 1959, within a few months of arriving in India, His Holiness the Dalai Lama established the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA). In this context, this is what he had to say, “Today, we are going through a critical period in time. We are a nation with an ancient culture, which is now facing the threat of extinction.” To prevent ancient traditions and skills from vanishing and also to strengthen them, TIPA preserves and develops the skills of traditional Tibetan performing arts like dance, music and opera. The training is structured and offers diploma courses.

Today, TIPA has over a hundred members. This includes artistes, instructors, administrative staff and craftsmen. In the activities undertaken by TIPA are the preservation of traditional Tibetan opera, called Lhamo. One of the major events organised by TIPA is the annual ‘Shoton Opera Festival’ which lasts for nine days with Lhamo presentations – and where a Lhamo performance can last up to six hours. The dances of Tibet varied from region to region and at TIPA, the programmes try and incorporate practically all the styles. Music forms an integral part of TIPA's training and the use of traditional instruments is taught; this apart, a band composes and plays ‘modern’ Tibetan music too! TIPA’s craft section provides all the elaborate costumes and props required for different performances – and on order, provides authentic dresses, costumes, musical instruments and boots. There is also a research section that documents and prepares archives of audio and visual materials.

TIPA sends its troupes to perform in different Tibetan settlements to keep the flame of its culture alive. Performances are also held at McLeodganj and other places in India. TIPA’s troupes have performed in twenty different countries and on an average, the artistes undertake five to six tours every year.

The road leading to the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts branches off near the bus-stand (at the knot of crossroads of McLeodganj) and can loop around via Dharamkot.

Special Attributes

An institute that teaches Tibetan dance, music and opera.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Conservative

Connectivity

Walk some distance

Enjoyed by

Culture and music buffs

Exposure

No exposure to direct sunlight

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

Parking at some distance.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

You can watch classes being held.

Type of site

Institute