Review by Linuka Mallikarachchi
The Trinity College National Drum and Dance Troupe, in collaboration with the Junior Drum and Dance Troupe, were recently crowned All-Island Champions.
At the ‘Sri Lanka Festival of Music, Dance, and Speech 2023,’ organised by the International Institute of Music, Speech, and Drama (IIMSD), the under 12, 15 and 18 categories emerged victorious.
Their incredible journey commenced on September 16, 2023, with the festival’s first phase held at the Kegalle Town Hall. It was at this initial stage that both the Junior and National Drum and Dance Troupes acquired the coveted distinction; ‘Outstanding Performance.’
The National Drum and Dance Troupe’s 18 Years & Under category presented a captivating and an authentic Traditional Wes Dance (වෙස් නර්තනය). Their performance earned them an impressive score of 91 marks. The 15 Years & Under Category enthralled everyone with their skillful presentation of the Traditional Thuranga Wannama (තුරඟා වන්නම) earning them 90 marks.
Subsequently, The Junior Drum and Dance Troupe’s 12 Years & Under Category dazzled with their rendition of the Mayura Wannama (මයුරා වන්නම), a performance that highlighted their grace and finesse in this exquisite dance form, earning them 86 marks.
The grand finale of the festival took place on September 19th and 20th, 2023, at the New Town Hall in Colombo 7. This marked a historic moment for both troupes, as it was their debut appearance in this competition. The significance of their participation was further elevated when both the National Drum and Dance Troupe and the Junior Drum and Dance Troupe were once again honoured with the title of ‘Outstanding Performance.’
Awards and Achievements:
Junior Drum and Dance Troupe: All-Island First Place (12 years & Under)
National Drum and Dance Troupe: All-Island First Place (15 years & Under)
National Drum and Dance Troupe: All-Island First Place (18 years & Under) and awarded the special accolade for the Best All-Island Troupe Performance.
Trinity College Drum and Dance Troupes have magnanimously left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Sri Lanka. Our heartiest congratulations to these extraordinary performers and their dedicated and talented MICs for these outstanding achievements!
