La Bamba! Here they come, our own stars
View(s):- From gruelling auditions to a West End production, local performers share their excitement at being a part of La Bamba! The Song of Veracruz! now running at the City of Dreams
It’s on this weekend! The West-End musical La Bamba! The Song of Veracruz! presented by Cinnamon Life City of Dreams and the John Keells Foundation is midway through its much-awaited four-day run giving local audiences a taste of vibrant musical theatre.
And taking the stage along with the international cast of La Bamba! are a group of local performers, who are clearly relishing the opportunity.
Relishing every moment: Local performers at rehearsals with one of the leading cast Charlotte Dos Santos Chabi. Pix by Lucky from goodstuff
The search for Sri Lanka’s musical theatre talent concluded earlier this year, with local hopefuls facing rigorous auditions in singing, dancing and acting under the Local Associate Director Jerome De Silva and Local Associate Music Director Soundarie David Rodrigo. The final cast for this production directed by London-based theatre producer Paul Morrissey reflects a mix of emerging and experienced performers, chosen for their versatility, stage presence, and ability to bring the spirit of this Latin-inspired musical to life.
Making up the select group are: Arali Peiris, Anagi Perera, Aitana Gunaratne, Ishini Gammanpila, Joshua Fernandez, Kaeyara Adela Zufer, Kevin Eric Lawson, Migara Cabral, Okitha Karunadhara, Roshni De Bond, Senithi Kaduruwewa, Theyon Athukorala, T.J. Perera, Trisha Fernandez, Uma Lekamge, Uvini Sirisena and Vishi Wijesooriya.
Arali Peiris (12), a student of Ladies’ College Colombo, has already made her mark through national-level singing competitions and a strong passion for performance. Kaeyara Adela Zufer (9), a student of Asian International School, has gained international recognition as a young vocalist, including a Gold Medal at the Bali International Choir Festival. Kevin Eric Lawson brings early experience in theatre productions such as Peter Pan and A Christmas Carol, alongside accolades in singing and piano. Theyon Athukorala (10), a student of Elizabeth Moir School, combines a love for drama and literature with achievements in speech and performance, while T.J. Perera (12) of S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia, balances his passion for sport and music, including performing in his school’s oriental band.
Reflecting on the rehearsals, cast members spoke of the intensity and the collaborative spirit of the process.
Roshni De Bond described the experience as both enriching and inspiring. “Being part of La Bamba has been one of the most insightful experiences I’ve had in theatre so far. I am truly thrilled to be part of a West End production right here in Sri Lanka and to collaborate with such a talented local and international cast. It is incredibly encouraging to see local talent given the opportunity to work alongside seasoned West End performers – an exchange that helps elevate the industry as a whole,” she said.
She also noted the impact of working with the international creative team. “Working with Adam (choreographer Haigh Adam) has been incredibly rewarding. His approach creates a space where we feel challenged yet supported, and being guided by him has been both a joy and a genuine source of inspiration.”
Aitana Gunaratne echoed this sentiment, highlighting the camaraderie and pace of rehearsals. “This process has been such an incredible journey. There’s something really special about being in a space where everyone is open, willing to learn and constantly pushing themselves. Getting to know the cast and growing together has been one of the most memorable parts,” she said.
She added that working with an international choreographer has helped build confidence across the cast. “He encourages each of us to be the best we can be while still enjoying the process. That balance has really helped us grow, even as we adapt to the fast-paced nature of rehearsals.”
Vishi Wijesooriya reflected on the growth that has come with the process. “The rehearsal journey has been intense in the best way. It really demands your full presence, but that’s what has pushed me to grow. There’s a strong sense of collaboration in the room, and those moments where everything – movement, music and emotion – suddenly clicks have been incredibly rewarding,” she said.
Adam, she said, “creates an environment where you feel both supported and challenged. That has helped me become more confident and intentional as a performer, focusing not just on the choreography, but on what I’m expressing through it.”
La Bamba! The Song of Vera Cruz! is on today and tomorrow – April 26 and 27 at the Forum, City of Dreams. A few tickets are still available via www.cinnamonboxoffice.com and their hotline +94 71 711 8111.
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