Meet the cast of In Search of Alternative Dreams

Artist Profiles

Moni Bhatt-arai was born in Nepal on April 7, 1998. He spent sixteen years of his life in a refugee camp struggling through his childhood and feeling different. He and his family decided to come to the United States on December 19, 2013 for a brighter future! He had a lot of problems communicating to Americans because of the language barrier. He tried to speak English, but Americans laughed at him because he kept mispronouncing words. He never quit and kept practicing and practicing. Now he is a senior at North High School. His dream is to become a computer programmer and a theatre artist.

Umesh Chhetri was born in India, but he and his family moved to Nepal in 2006. Finally, in 2013, he moved to the United States for the hope of a brighter future. While at North High School, he played on the varsity soccer team for two years. Unfortunately, he was unable to play this year due to a knee injury against Firestone High School. He worked with Suruwath Theatre where he performed many plays.

Lachu Khadka was born on March 30, 1998 in Nepal. He moved to the United States in 2015. He currently attends North High School, where he plays on the varsity soccer team. With his help they won the City Series Championship. Not only does he enjoy sports but theatre too. In his free time he likes to sightsee and hangout with friends.

Rita Rai was born in India on June 9, 1998. Her family moved to Nepal when she was 4 years old. Her family admitted her and her sister in a refugee camp school. Her and her family started a shop where they sold buffalo soup, pig soup, noodles, alcohol, and other stuff. They stayed there for 8 to 9 years until they moved to the United States. She joined her school’s drama department in 2014 and has loved every minute since. She will be graduating from high school at the end of this year. She is looking forward to the opportunities she will have while attending college.

Sonika Sunar was born on July 12, 1998 in Nepal. She spent her life living in a refugee camp until moving to the United States. When she was younger she enjoyed going to school, especially because she had the opportunity to spend time with her friends. Over the years, she has developed a passion for dancing and theatre. While in Nepal, she performed in a play that showcased her talents. After a lot of dedication and hard work she was awarded 2nd place for her performance. She has met a bunch of friends since moving to the United States of America, many of which are her fellow castmates. She is very happy their achievements with this play.

Neema Tamang was born on August 10, 1996 in a Nepali refugee camp. He worked with Suruwath Theatre Company as an artist, which he established on April 20, 2011. His goal was to bring social awareness to the community and preserve the Nepali culture. His interest in the arts drives him to perform. He also wants to share the arts with other people so they know what it is to love the arts and do creative things. Not only is he passionate about theatre, but sports too.