Curtain rises for MR Tele-cinema Park
Ruwini Jayawardana
Sri Lanka's first ever fully-equipped National Tele-cinema Park at
Ranmihithenna, Tissamaharama, opened last week marking the biggest
investment a Government had made for local cinema. Titled the Mahinda
Rajapaksa National Tele-cinema Park this mega project was declared open
by President Mahinda Rajapaksa amidst celebrations.
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A construction at the MR Tele-cinema Park. Picture by Sarath
Dharmasiri |
The park was buzzing with activity as many gathered to admire the
sets and buildings designed by renowned Art Director Errol Kelly. Around
450 artistes took part in the event which featured some unique
performances to express their gratitude towards the President.
"There will be an indoor stadium and a swimming pool to shoot
underwater scenes. There is still a lot of work to be done to complete
the project so that any kind of scene could be shot at the location.
Sets in which you can move the concrete columns around to suit the
shooting environment is part of the package. The backdrop is built in a
manner where you can change its face to suite your requirement," Kelly
revealed what is in store for the future.
He also added that having to hunt for village and street backdrops
for inspired him to taking on the task of creating an environment so
that teledrama and movie makers can shoot their creations under one
roof. Award winning teledrama director Sudath Rohana is currently
shooting some scenes of his newest production at the park.
"Another positive aspect linked with the project is that there will
be workshops to train aspiring artistes. I am satisfied with the
constructions and, hopefully, work will run smoothly," Kelly said.
The tele-cinema village is expected to be completed in three stages. |
