Sri Lanka Foundation Performing Arts Center organized a free dancing and drumming workshop in Downtown Los Angeles on Sunday, February 19. Over 50 participants of various ages joined in to learn the basics of traditional drumming and dancing.
The drumming session was led by senior instructor Lal Thilakarathna. The participants were introduced to the Gata Beraya, Yak Beraya, Daula and the Thammatama. They learned how the drums are made and how to play them. They even got a chance to learn how to keep rhythm and play as a group. Lal is a professional Ves Dancer, choreographer, director and a professional drummer with over 30 years experience in visual and performing arts. He has toured at over 30 countries taking part in over 100 events with various troupes. He was a judge and advisor to the Cultural Department of Sri Lanka and is considered the fastest spinner in Kandyan Dance, with 4 spins per second.
After a quick break everyone enjoyed learning Sri Lankan Uda rata(Kandyan), Pahatha ) rata(Low Country) and Sambaragamuwa dance from instructor Chathuri Wickramaarachchi. They also learned the “Namaskaraya” which is how all dancers start their practice. Chathuri is a graduate of the University of Visual & Performing Arts in Sri Lanka and was a student of Chithrasena Dance school and the Channa & Upuli dance Foundation. She’s has toured over 30 countries with Channa Upuli dance troupe.
After the workshop all the participants received a certificate of participation. If you are interested in free dance and drumming classes contact SLF Performing Arts Center at 213-400-1662 or info@srilankafoundation.org
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If you are interested in free dance and drumming classes contact SLF Performing Arts Center at 213-400-1662 or info@srilankafoundation.org
