‘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.