Shadow puppets still alive
Priyanka Kurugala
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The shadow puppet drama could be witnessed as a new experience
in the country’s culture and arts |
The artistes have continued with many difficulties |
Puppetry is an art with a long history in the country. It evolved
along with local folklore. However, the art of shadow puppetry has gone
into almost oblivion in the country.
Sri Jayawardanapura University's NATONA Puppet Troupe and Cultural
Centre will bring back a new cultural item. It is the shadow puppet
drama Fa Hsien Thera, commemorating the Sri Sambuddhathva Jayanthi as a
cultural event. Fa Hsien Thera, a drama based on the historical
character in global Buddhist history, will be performed at John de Silva
Memorial Theatre on April 1 at 6 pm.
Ethical foundation for the Sri Sambuddathva Jayanthi is mainly based
on Buddhism. Every Buddhist celebrates this rare event with various
religious and cultural ceremonies without harming the event's theme.
String puppets could still be seen in the country occasionally. This
art is maintained at Ambalangoda.
The artistes have continued with many difficulties. The Sri
Jayawardanapura University has understood the importance of folklore
study. As a result, they have taken steps to introduce traditional
cultural arts into the modern generation.
The director and the puppet creator of this drama is Kosala Priyam
Kumara. The producer is Dilip Kumara Nanayakkara, who has also worked on
the concept, scriptwriting and music. The cast and crew is a collective
effort of over 30 artistes.
The first show will be held under the patronage of Cultural and Arts
Affairs Minister T B Ekanayake, National Heritage and Cultural Affairs
Minister Jagath Balasuriya, Chinese Ambassador Ye Dabo and other guests.
Fa Hsien Thera will be staged in Sinhala, while Chinese and English
languages will be used for selected dialogues. The music comprises of
Chinese, Sri Lankan traditional, Indian and Gamelan mode. |
