Homage to local dance traditions
Ruwini Jayawardana
'Sarasi Narthana Prayamaya', an evening of enthralling dance items
presented by the students of Sirimavo Balika Vidyalaya, Colombo, will be
held at Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa theatre on February 17 at 6.30
pm.
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Shirani
Kumari |
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A dance
item by Shirani’s students |
The event will be choreographed by the school's dance teacher Shirani
Kumari de Costa Weerathunga. It is aimed at enriching the country's
dance tradition and creating awareness about Sri Lanka's rich dance
techniques. "I was a student of Dehiwala Royal College. I have followed
the drama and performance diploma at Colombo University and excelled in
the traditional dance forms of Sri Lanka," said Shirani who has a career
spanning two decades in the field.
She notes that many students join her 'Ganga Narthana Asapuwa' at
Sudharshi hall because she teaches them the correct techniques of the
art. She trains them continuously till she feels that they have
perfected the moves.
Speaking on why she chose to showcase the show at Lotus Pond theatre
Shirani says that it is with the hope of drawing the attentions of the
authorities towards the traditional dance forms of the country.
She notes, "This is also the first local dance show to be performed
at Lotus Pond. Though we tried to locate sponsors for the event only a
few were keen to help us out.
Most like to put their money into shows which include dance items in
which the dancers merely sway their body while wearing exposing clothes.
They are not interested in preserving our traditions and helping
young talent to blossom."
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