‘Maathra’ – most beautiful form of Sri Lankan traditional dancing
This year ‘Maathra’ is held for the 4th consecutive year on October
10 at the National Youth Centre Hall, Maharagama at 6 p.m. Some of the
performances include items that are currently selected for the All
Island Dancing Competition 2011 Finals to be held later this year.
‘Maathra’ is the most prominent aesthetic event in the school
calendar of all Lyceum International Schools, where students from Lyceum
Nugegoda, Kandana, Wattala, Panadura, Gampaha, and Ratnapura perform
together on one stage.
The Kandyan dance has become most distinctively Sinhalese and is
readily associated with the idea of a National Dance. This is not just
culturally but it is one of the most beautiful forms of art in Sri
Lanka. Earlier this form of art was limited only to the religious
aspects, but today it has become a performing art. The Dance, apart from
being kept alive, also maintains a purity which gives it its unique
quality which in turn will benefit our future generations. Uplifting the
culture and heritage of Sri Lanka and nurturing values and traditions in
young minds is what ‘Maathra’ is all about.
‘Maathra’ is a combination of both cultural dance and drama. As
traditional dancing plays a major role in the cultural heritage of Sri
Lanka, ‘Maathra’ is one example that attracts the young generation to
this field. ‘Maathra’ enables students to be well versed with our
culture as well as talented and dedicated in a variety of streams. As a
nation we can be proud that our younger generations show interest in our
traditional dances as well as performing it well in cultural shows. This
is a sure sign that our heritage will not lose its beauty in the years
to come.
The costumes, choreography, stage decorations, splendor and rhythm,
portrays a variety of high degree competencies that highlight true
cultural dance forms and creative value. It provides the opportunity for
children to bring about their aesthetic talents while they are engaged
in academic work and helps develop their intellectual, physical and
aesthetic abilities. ‘Maathra’ is a collective effort of both teachers
and students which enables a unique presentation of sensational items
enriched with entertainment and cultural values. |