Review by Banura Karunarathna
From July 24 to July 30, 2024, the Trinity College National Drum and Dance Troupe embarked on an inspiring journey to Thailand, representing Sri Lanka at an international cultural event celebrating the 72nd birthday of the King of Thailand. This tour, organized by the International Folklore Artists Network Organization, provided a remarkable platform for cultural exchange and global exposure.
Led by Akash Abeysinghe (Troupe Leader) and Dheemath Amarasinghe (Assistant Troupe Leader), our troupe performed a variety of traditional Sri Lankan dances, including the upcountry WES dance, the low-country DEWOL dance, and the Naga Raksha dance. Their dedication was evident in every performance, showcasing Sri Lankan heritage with grace and skill.
The talented participants included:
- Bhagyagith Dunuweera
- Dineth Kalugampitiya
- Riveen Bamunusinghe
- Navindu Nethsilu
- Chanul Jayasena
- Banura Karunarathna
- Ishanka Nawarathne
- Thinal Abeykoon
- Avishka Wanigasekara
- Dilitha Wettewa
- Indisa Hettiarachchi
- Avishka Jayamanne
- Wageeshan Chandrasekaram
- Sithika Jayasena
- Deegayu Yatawara
- Nithila Serasinghe
- Nidash Fernandoo
- Zenel Zakeer
- Isitha Samarasinghe
- Nisal Weerasekara
Highlights of our tour included:
- 25th July: Arrival in Bangkok, exploring the city, and visiting Pattaya.
- 26th July: A visit to the “SCI POWER FOR THE FUTURE THAILAND”
exhibition at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, followed by the first show at the Royal Thai Army Radio and Television Station, broadcast live on Thai television.
- 27th July: A tour of the ancient Ayutthaya Temple, a standout WES dance performance and engagement with local Thai officials.
- 28th July: A vibrant city parade followed by performances at Robinson Mall and Wat Wirachot Thammaram Temple, honoring the King of Thailand.
- 29th July: A day of cultural exchange and reflection in Bangkok, engaging with the local community and exploring the city’s cultural landmarks.
- 30th July: Departure from Thailand and safe return to Sri Lanka.
We extend our sincere gratitude to our dedicated instructor, Mr. Sunil Chandrasiri, and our esteemed director of TCCEI, Mr. Wasana Dissanayake, for their invaluable support and guidance. Their contributions were instrumental to the success of our tour.
We are immensely proud of our troupe’s achievements and are grateful for the support from our school’s administration. This tour was not only a celebration of our cultural heritage but also an unforgettable experience that strengthened our connection to global traditions.
