Buddhika Jayaratne's maiden film :

"Dedunu Wessa" to end cinematic drought

POPULAR actor Buddhika Jayaratne has completed work on his directorial debut "Dedunu Wessa" (Rainbow Rains) which focuses on a novel theme.

Buddhika says the film would cater to the popular taste of society and expressed the confidence that it would give a novel experience to local film goers.

"I have laid emphasis on increasing visual satisfaction without affecting the meaning of the film," he added. He also scripted the movie.

Buddhika described the cast of the film as a combination of veteran artistes and newcomers. "It is a significant combination which would create memorable scenes. I believe that the experience of veterans as well the contribution and talents of novices are necessary for making a good movie."

He explained that there is no special main role. "All are playing equally important characters which would add a sensation to the film. All actors made a worthy contribution to the film."

The film stars Buddhika, Malini Fonseka, Jeevan Kumaratunga, 2005 Miss Universe contestant Rozzane Diasz, Nirosha Perera, Srimal Wedasinghe and Madhumadawa Aravinda. The film was produced by Ranjith Jayasuriya and Piyal Seneviratne.

While Buddhika claims that the film would give a novel experience to viewers, he declined to comment on the film's story base.

Buddhika also reserved his comment on as to what category the film would belong. "It is upto the critics and spectators to judge the film and come to a conclusion on the film's category. I don't like to comment on it now."

He was of the view that it would have been better if more technology was used in making the film, shot in Colombo, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya and Uswetakeiyyawa. Shooting took only one month. Buddhika says the a decision on releasing the film will be taken within the next few weeks.

He was proud about his creation and claimed he was an actor who turned into a director within the shortest period of entering the cinema world.

"I first acted in a film four half years back and within a very short period I was able to become a film director." Already, Buddhika has received an invitation by a producer to direct a second film.

"That invitation was extended to me even before the maiden film was screened and that's really encouraging and also a golden opportunity." he noted.

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Creative Activities for Children at Punchi Theatre

UNDER the supervision of veteran children's theatre playwright and director, Lanka Children's and Youth Theatre Organisation (LCYTO) commences its next session of "Creative Activities for Children" in July 2005.

Somalatha Subasinghe initiated LCYTO in 1981 for promoting theatre productions and performances for children and youth, training of actors, and research on theatre studies. Children from ages four to 14 can take part in the programme.

The prime objective of the programme is to develop the child's mental and physical aspects and to enhance cheerfulness of the child through aesthetic experiences. This programme can be considered a supplement to the formal education the child obtains in school.

The programme gives the child the opportunity to learn the basics of enjoying and appreciating music, free movement, dance and rhythmic movement, acting, art, singing, puppetry and handwork.

This programme is conducted on Saturdays from 9.30 a.m. to 1.30 p.m. at Namel Malini Punchi Theatre in Borella. For details send in a stamped envelope to the Coordinator, Lanka Children's and Youth Theatre Organisation, No. 166/1, Buddhist Institute Avenue, Parliament Road, Kotte 10100.