'Dangamalla' returns to the stage
Ruwini JAYAWARDANA
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Ramani and Nelisa
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Children are known for mischief making but if you understand their
mindset and strategically guide them in the proper manner, you would be
able to turn a new leaf in their career.
This is one of the key aspects of Nalaka Swarnatileka's 'Dangamalla
Saha Amuthu Iskole' which went on board the theatres in 2003 and ran for
more than 30 shows islandwide.
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Kusum Renu lights the traditional oil lamp at the muhurath
ceremony. Nalaka, Ramani and Nilmini look on |
The play is based on Enid Blyton's popular children's novel 'The
Naughtiest Girl' series. It won the best children's drama award at the
National Stage drama Festival 2003. It introduced child vocalist Natasha
Perera to stage and won her the best actress title at the event. The
play was so popular that it was made into a tele series in 2006. It is
still al all time favourite and many still request the director to
restage the drama so that the present generation can view it again.
Come 2011 and Nalaka decided to attend to these request and bring 'Dangamalla'
to the stage in new light and with a whole set of new faces. The
muhurath ceremony of the event was held at his performing arts training
school recently.
The children's roles in the latest version will be played by 12 girls
and boys from Vishaka Vidyalaya, Devi Balika Vidyalaya, Sirimavo
Bandaraniyake Vidyalaya, St. Paul's Girls School, Royal College
Isipathana College, Mahanama College, D S Senanayake College, Good
Shepard Convent Colombo, South International School, Royal Institute,
Musaeus College and Ananda Balika Vidyalaya - Kotte. The adult roles are
portrayed by Kusum Renu, Moreen Charuni, Ramani Siriwardena, Nilmini
Sigera and Sanjeewa Upendra. Nelisa Algama will portray the role of
Elizabeth Allen.
The music is by Nuwan Vithanage, the lyrics are by Amitha Rabbidigala
and Nuwan Katugampola, the choreography is by Harshika Rathnayaka, the
make-up is by Banu Prasanna and the lighting is by Ranga Samarakoon.
Tharanga Anthony designed the costumes.
The stage manager is Ashoka Weeratunga. The graphic designer is
Kanchana Ranga. |
