Sunday Times 2
The Ballet School of Colombo celebrates 10 years with ‘Viharamahadevi’ ballet
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The Ballet School of Colombo (TBSC) will mark its milestone 10th anniversary year with a full-length classical ballet to celebrate a decade of dedication to classical ballet training and the advancement of performing arts education in Sri Lanka. What began as a home-grown vision to nurture disciplined and artistically refined young dancers has grown into one of the country’s leading institutions committed to excellence in classical ballet.
The highlight of the year will be a classical ballet based on the legendary tale of Viharamahadevi, presented to an original orchestral score commissioned for the production. While the story of Viharamahadevi remains one of the most powerful narratives in our history, it has never before been interpreted as a complete classical ballet. This original creation seeks to bring a distinctly Sri Lankan story onto the global classical stage.
It reflects The Ballet School’s belief that Sri Lankan stories deserve to be told at an international standard, not as adaptations, but as original works conceived, developed and produced within Sri Lanka.
“This anniversary is not simply a celebration of ten years,” said Romina Gyi of The Ballet School. “It is a celebration of classical ballet in Sri Lanka and of the extraordinary potential of our youth. Through this production, we are creating something entirely original: a Sri Lankan historic narrative presented through the grandeur of classical ballet to an original score.”
The production brings together choreographers, composers, designers and performers in a home-grown creative effort. By commissioning an original orchestral score and developing a full-length ballet narrative, The Ballet School aims to elevate Sri Lankan performing arts onto a broader international platform, demonstrating that local talent can produce work of global calibre.
Performance dates and venue details will be announced in due course.
The anniversary year will also feature educational initiatives, workshops and outreach programmes designed to deepen appreciation for classical ballet and the performing arts. Through its affiliation with ComDance (CSTD Australia), The Ballet School offers internationally recognised qualifications in classical ballet, jazz, tap and theatrical & performing arts. Students may pursue international examinations, as well as teachers’ diplomas, opening pathways to career opportunities.
As preparations gather momentum, The Ballet School invites patrons of the arts, cultural advocates and the corporate sector to support an initiative that blends heritage, education and artistic excellence in a truly original Sri Lankan creation.
For further information or partnership inquiries, please contact:
Janindu Ranasinghe or Tara Cooke, The Ballet School of Colombo,
On: 0773432496
0774585000
Or at:
admin@tbscolombo.com
www.tbscolombo.com