About ShivaNova
Music, Art & Growing Together
Our story
Rooted in Kent, connected to the world
A culturally diverse music and arts company, established in 1995, with Equator Festival set up in 2007 as its events and workshops programme.
Founding year to confirm.
Our model
How it all fits together
ShivaNova
The arts company. We create, commission and develop the work: new music, dance and films, artist projects and training.
Equator Festival
Our public programme. It is where people come to the festivals, celebrations and workshops in towns across Kent.
Communities and World Culture
Festivals and celebrations delivered through Equator.
Workshops, Training and Young People
Hands-on learning, booked through Equator.
Musicians and Artists
New work made by ShivaNova, performed on Equator stages and beyond.
Why it matters
Why our work matters
Bringing people together
Shared experiences that reduce isolation and build real connection between neighbours.
Culture made visible
World traditions celebrated at the heart of Kent's towns, not kept on the margins.
Skills and pathways
Hands-on learning and routes into the arts for young people and emerging artists.
“This will be a quote from Priti about why she started ShivaNova and what it means to bring people together through music.”
Team
The people who make it happen
Priti Paintal
Artistic Director. Composer, performer and music producer, trained in Indian and Western music.
- Photo to come
Jack Stevenson
Events Coordinator
Board
Our board
- Photo to come
Paul Patterson
Composer, British Music Collection
- Photo to come
Jiella Esmat
Founder and CEO, 8 Lions
- Photo to come
Preeti Dasgupta
Community arts champion, Karamel N22 and Collage Arts
- Photo to come
Anoohya
Engagement and Wellbeing Coordinator
- Photo to come
Abena Akuffo-Kelly
Board member
Role to confirm
- Photo to come
Theadora Stewart
Board member
Role and spelling to confirm
- Photo to come
Stephen Hedley
Board member
Role to confirm
Want to bring people together through music and dance?
Get in touch