Rhythms of the World Brings Vibrant Song and Dance
While we love and find pride in our northeast Wisconsin culture—it’s one of the reasons our magazine’s tagline is “Celebrating the place we call home”—we’re even more proud of the melting pot that the Fox Cities has blossomed into.
A variety of cultures live in our corner of the globe, bringing with them traditions and lifestyles that we can only gain from. From traditional food, dance, music and more, the different customs of our world meet here.
They educate, inspire and allow our community to come together in a fun and different way.
Rhythms of the World, a free family-friendly event happening on September 12 this year, brings some of these cultures to our backyard—or downtown Appleton, in actuality.
“Rhythms of the World helps create greater awareness of the variety of rich cultural traditions within the Fox Cities,” Dr. Balakuntalam Sridhar (Sridhar), Founding President of IndUS of Fox Valley from 2001-2007, explains. “It gives both children and adults an opportunity to learn about world cultures through the talents and traditions of their own neighbors, fostering understanding, respect and a stronger sense of community.
“The event has become a favorite community tradition, featuring lively performances, interactive audience participation and opportunities to experience the many cultures that enrich our community. Guests not only enjoy music and dance from around the world but also gain a deeper appreciation of the traditions, history and cultural riches represented by their friends and neighbors here in the Fox Cities.”
2026 marks the event’s ninth year, and the event has grown considerably from the beginning. Leaders from Rotary and IndUS of Fox Valley developed the concept into the event it is today, with enthusiastic support from local nonprofit organizations and the City of Appleton.
Today, Rhythms of the World collaborates with a variety of community partners, including Appleton Downtown Inc., the Appleton Farmers Market, Appleton Public Library, Building for Kids, Casa Hispana Inc., Celebrate Diversity Fox Cities, the City of Appleton, Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, Fox Valley Technical College, IndUS of Fox Valley, the Northeast Wisconsin Chinese Association, Lawrence University and the Rotary Clubs of Appleton.
“The event has grown tremendously in both size and community participation. Last year alone, more than 125 performers represented 23 different cultures and ethnic traditions through music and dance,” Sridhar shares.
This year’s lineup proves to again enchant visitors just as it has since the beginning.
“Come celebrate with us! You’ll enjoy outstanding performances, experience cultures from around the world, learn something new, and most of all, have fun,” Sridhar says. “Rhythms of the World is a wonderful opportunity for the whole family to celebrate the cultural tapestry that makes our community so special.”
Below, discover a few of the performers participating in this year’s Rhythms of the World happening on September 12 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Houdini Plaza, downtown Appleton.
Fox Valley Latin Dancers
A group of 1700 dancers who are passionate about sharing their love for dance, the Fox Valley Latin Dancers return to Rhythms of the World showcasing salsa, cumbia, bachata and merengue.
“Typically with this type of event, we essentially do elevated social dancing as sort of a demonstration,” Melissa Kahl, Founder and Director, says. “It’s sort of a snapshot that a person from Northeast Wisconsin typically would never see. They will have visibility to dances from multiple different cultures.”
She explains that salsa partially represents countries like Cuba, Puerto Rico and even New York City. Cumbia is representative of countries like Mexico and Colombia—cumbia is the national dance of Colombia—while merengue and bachata are from the Dominican Republic.
While the dance styles may seem intimidating at first, Kahl likens the steps to a dance some Wisconsinites may be more familiar with.
“I grew up doing polka and when people come to me and say, ‘I have two left feet,’ I say Latin dancing is like polka—polka is a 1, 2, 3 and so are salsa and cumbia. Merengue is similar to essentially walking or marching in place,” she says. “And the bachata is a little bit similar to line dancing. It’s really all universal.
“And if people have ever played music, have ever played an instrument, it seems like it’s very easy for them to pick up the dancing because you kind of have an ear for that. It makes it a little bit easier initially.”
Visitors of Rhythms of the World can join the 20 or so Fox Valley Latin Dancers at the event to try their hand at the social dances.
“A lot of times, we will try to pull people in from the audience with the easiest dance that we have, which is the merengue,” Kahl explains. “It’s fun for it to be interactive with people. It’s always open if people want to jump in if they feel comfortable, but that dance in particular, since it’s kind of like marching in place and things like that. It gives people a little bit more confidence.
“Not everyone has the ability or necessarily desire, I guess, to travel to all of these different countries—or even to cities in the U.S. where these things (multicultural festivities) are more prominent. It’s a super unique opportunity. It’s a real gem and it’s a blessing to have that in such a small town like Appleton. I’ve lived in places like Dallas and Madison and bigger cities where it’s easier to find some of those cultural aspects, but the fact that they’re not just brought to Appleton, but they’re celebrated in Appleton is special.”
Why should people visit Rhythms of the World this year? “Well for one, it’s my birthday!” Kahl laughs. “But really, there is so much effort that IndUS puts into it. The elaborate costumes, and also their dancing is so ornate: the way their fingers move, the head tilts, it’s a whole other level of dancing that I feel like people here really aren’t aware of.
“From our group, you’ll get the good vibes, you’ll get the social element. You’ll see some of the partner stuff, which is super fun, but you’ll see a really wide range of things from other countries as well, which I think is really, really cool.”
IndUS of Fox Valley
Founded in 2001, IndUS of Fox Valley is dedicated to promoting Indo-American friendship and goodwill by serving the community through cultural, educational, social and charitable initiatives.
The group brings its mission to life by presenting cultural programs, partnering with local schools and colleges, and supporting charitable organizations such as the Salvation Army.
“Rhythms of the World is a shining example of our commitment to building a stronger, more connected community through the celebration of cultural diversity,” Dr. Balakuntalam Sundareswara Sridhar (Sridhar), Founding President from 2001 to 2007, says. “IndUS leaders and volunteers are founding members of the Rhythms of the World organizing team and have proudly provided both leadership and financial support since the event’s inception. For the past nine years, we have collaborated with more than a dozen cultural organizations to help make Rhythms of the World one of our community’s premier multicultural celebrations.”
IndUS volunteers have played a leading role in program curation, recruiting performers, coordinating cultural groups and managing stage and sound production. This year will be no exception.
“IndUS performers will present a variety of solo and group dances representing both India’s rich folk traditions and its classical performing arts,” Sridhar explains. “Folk-dance presentations include Bhangra and Dandiya Raas. Originating in the fertile agricultural regions of Punjab and Haryana in northern India, Bhangra is an energetic harvest dance that celebrates the joy and vitality of spring. Dandiya Raas, often called the ‘stick dance’ originated in the western state of Gujarat and is also popular in neighboring Maharashtra.”
The dance is performed in colorful costumes and rhythmic movements, and is traditionally associated with Indian fall celebrations, most notably Navratri.
“Audience participation is an important part of both dances, and our performers will invite guests to join, learn a few steps, and experience these traditions firsthand,” Sridhar says. “We will also present two of India’s eight recognized classical dance traditions: Bharatanatyam and Kathak.
Bharatanatyam, originating in southern India, is one of the world’s oldest classical dance forms.
“Its highly refined vocabulary of movement, facial expression, rhythm and storytelling is rooted in the ancient Natyashastra, traditionally attributed to Bharata and dating to approximately 200 BCE–200 CE.
“Kathak, from northern India, evolved over centuries through both Hindu and Mughal influences. Distinguished by intricate footwork, graceful spins, expressive gestures and rhythmic precision, Kathak uses dance to tell stories of devotion, love, and heroism.”
More to know in the community and beyond: “For over three decades, Seva, the volunteer service arm of IndUS, has served Saturday lunches at Salvation Army locations in Appleton and Green Bay. (Seva, founded in 1993, merged with IndUS),” Sridhar says. “ IndUS has presented classical music concerts featuring Grammy Award winners and other internationally acclaimed artists from India, as well as dance productions by renowned companies from Madison, Minneapolis, and Chicago.
“Following the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, IndUS led a community fundraising effort that raised more than $250,000 for relief efforts benefiting communities in Thailand, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and India. IndUS proudly supported the capital campaign for the Appleton Public Library by contributing to the creation of a study room.”
Why should people visit Rhythms of the World this year? “You’ll experience outstanding performances, discover traditions from around the world, learn something new, and, most importantly, have fun,” Sridhar says. “Whether you’re attending for the first time or returning as a longtime supporter, Rhythms of the World offers something for everyone.
“It is a wonderful opportunity for families and friends to celebrate the rich cultural tapestry that makes our community such a vibrant place to live.”
Nkauj Zaj Dance Academy
A Hmong Dance Program under the nonprofit Maiv Passion Foundation, Ltd., the Nkauj Zaj Dance Academy (NZDA)’s vision is to provide a safe and nurturing environment that fosters education, growth, creativity, sisterhood and cultural preservation through the performing arts.
“2026 is our 5-year anniversary of the dance academy,” Mai Nu Vang, Founder/President of Maiv Passion Foundation, Ltd., says. “One of our most favorite, special moments was being the first ever Hmong Dance Academy to perform at the NFL Draft in Titletown. We appreciate all of the support and relationships built these past 5 years and can’t wait to see what the future will hold.”
The group plans to showcase two of their routines and will also be incorporating an interactive Hmong line dance with the crowd at this year’s Rhythms of the World.
“The first dance routine talks about one of the only major annual celebrations in our culture: Hmong New Year,” Vang explains.
“The second dance routine is a classic that draws on a cute back-and-forth play with a special guest dancer joining us.
“The third song, which is the interactive line dance, is a simplified version of something engaging that happens at nearly all Hmong events to interact with the crowd and have fun!”
It’s about showcasing Hmong culture for those who may not be familiar, but it’s the welcoming and inviting aspect of the event that Vang sees as vital.
“I think participation is significant because it allows for a safe, welcoming and positive space for representation.,” she says. “NZDA is proud to be able to represent and showcase the Hmong culture through the performing arts to our community at large.
“I think this teaches guests that, yes, we can celebrate each other’s differences but that there are universal themes that draw us together. Whether that be music, textile, food or more!”
Why should people visit Rhythms of the World this year? “Definitely check out all the performances that will bring a unique vibe and the different nonprofits that will be there too,” Vang says.
Northeast Wisconsin Chinese Association (NEWCA)
The Northeast Wisconsin Chinese Association (NEWCA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting people through culture, education and community service. NEWCA’s mission and involvement in the community aims to preserve and celebrate Chinese heritage.
The group does so by sharing their performances, youth activities, educational programs and more with the Fox Cities community.
At Rhythms of the World, NEWCA will bring traditional Chinese dance performances that go beyond entertainment.
“Chinese dance tells stories. Many traditional dances are inspired by historical legends, regional customs, nature, festivals or expressions of joy and celebration,” Fanni Xie, Executive Director, says. “Every movement, costume and piece of music has meaning and reflects the diversity of China’s many ethnic groups and thousands of years of history.
“Beyond performing, we’ll also be there to meet visitors, answer questions and introduce people to Chinese culture in a fun and welcoming way. We always enjoy conversations with guests who may be experiencing Chinese traditions for the very first time.”
Xie recognizes how cohesive it is to share Chinese celebrations in this way.
“Music and dance have always been an important way for Chinese families to celebrate holidays, honor traditions, and bring communities together,” she shares. “Even for younger generations growing up in the United States, these performances help preserve cultural identity while creating opportunities to share it with friends and neighbors from different backgrounds.
“Events like Rhythms of the World remind us that while our cultures may be different, our values are often very similar. Every culture has traditions, music, food, celebrations, and stories that families pass from one generation to the next. When people experience another culture firsthand, it replaces assumptions with understanding. A performance that lasts only a few minutes can spark conversations, friendships and curiosity that last much longer.”
What began as a social organization for Chinese families who wanted to celebrate holidays and support one another after immigrating to Wisconsin, today, NEWCA members perform at schools, libraries, festivals, and community events throughout the region.
“We also organize one of Northeast Wisconsin’s largest Lunar New Year celebrations and the Northeast Wisconsin Dragon Boat Festival, bringing together thousands of participants and spectators from across the Midwest,” Xie says.
“One of my favorite moments is watching children who grew up here proudly perform Chinese dances or music on stage,” Xie says. “They’re not only learning about their own heritage, but they’re also becoming ambassadors who help build understanding between cultures.”
Why should people visit Rhythms of the World this year? “It’s one of the few opportunities where you can experience so many cultures in one place,” Xie says. “You can travel around the world in a single afternoon through music, dance, food and conversations with people who are excited to share their traditions. Whether you’ve lived in Wisconsin your whole life or recently moved here from somewhere else, there’s always something new to discover.
“I hope people leave not only entertained, but also inspired to learn more about their neighbors. That’s how stronger, more connected communities are built.”
Valley Academy for the Arts
Education, creativity and community meet at the Valley Academy for the Arts, and that’s exactly what they’re bringing to Rhythms of the World by sharing traditional dances from Eastern Europe.
“While many people know us as a ballet organization, classical ballet has long drawn inspiration from the music, movement and traditions of cultures around the world,” Anne Marie Abderholden, Executive/Artistic Director, shares. “Many beloved ballets—including Swan Lake, The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker—incorporate traditional and heritage dances to establish a sense of place, celebrate different cultures or introduce characters from various regions.
“We believe these dances deserve to be studied and performed with the same level of technical rigor, historical understanding and artistic respect as classical ballet. We strive to honor the traditions, movement vocabulary and cultural context of each dance rather than presenting it as a theatrical caricature or costume. Our goal is to celebrate the rich cultural heritage from which these dances originate while helping audiences appreciate the important role they have played in the history of dance and performance.”
Led by mother-and-daughter team, Anne Marie Abderholden and Katharina Abderholden, Valley Academy for the Arts leans on their experience as professional dancers in Europe. Anne Marie studied traditional Eastern European dance with teachers connected to the renowned Igor Moiseyev Ballet, whose work she says is recognized internationally for preserving and presenting authentic folk dance traditions.
Each performance at Rhythms of the World will represent not only choreography but also a living tradition that has been carefully preserved and handed from one generation to the next.
“As a community arts organization, we believe that the arts are one of the most powerful ways to bring people together,” Abderholden says. “Rhythms of the World provides an opportunity for us to celebrate the rich cultural traditions that have influenced dance throughout history while standing alongside artists who represent the many cultures that make our community unique.
“For our students, this experience extends far beyond the performance itself. They have the opportunity to share the stage with artists whose traditions, music, and movement have been passed down through generations.
Watching, learning from, and connecting with these artists helps our students develop a deeper appreciation for cultures beyond their own and reminds them that dance is a universal language with many voices.”
Why should people visit Rhythms of the World this year? “More than anything, the event feels like a community celebration!” Abderholden says. “It’s a place where families, friends and neighbors can come together to explore new cultures, support local artists, and celebrate the diversity that makes our community so special. Whether you’re discovering a new favorite food, enjoying a performance, or simply taking in the festive atmosphere, Rhythms of the World is an experience that leaves you curious and connected.”