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Prathiba 2013,’ an evening of performing arts featuring top artistes and talented disabled individuals scheduled for 6 July from 6:30 p.m. onwards at the Bishop’s College Auditorium, Colombo 3. With the show scheduled to enlighten many, following are excerpts of an interview held with Jazaya Hasandeen, Project Chairman and Raquel Yaseen, Managing Director, Crown Hair and Beauty – Principal Sponsor for ‘Dirijaya Prathiba 2013’
Q: What is the background for this event?
Hasandeen: Enable the Disabled (ETD) and Principal Sponsor Crown Hair and Beauty have joined to present a unique event to showcase a first-of-its-kind program in Sri Lanka – ‘Crown Dirijaya Prathiba,’ a performing arts evening featuring highly talented performers, along with renowned artistes from the local scene.
This program is part of a series of events carried out by ETD to empower disabled people in Sri Lanka and encourage them to develop and showcase their talents alongside other performers.
Q: What is the objective of the event?
Hasandeen: All profits from this program will be channelled to assist disabled entrepreneurs with financial assistance, management consultation, advisory professionals in their business fields, to make these challenged persons professional in their outlook and to become self-sustaining rather than a burden on the economy.
Q: How is this show different?
Hasandeen: ‘Dirijaya Prathiba 2013’ is not just another musical, nor just another program to bring attention and empathy to the differently-abled; rather it is designed to amaze those who will attend this program, to see and appreciate the latent talent of our special children, brothers and sisters, who are eager to share their talents on one stage with the celebrities.
It’s a day that will certainly challenge the minds of those who have the time and enthusiasm to support the venture of ETD. This program does not centre around one person but is open to the public and we are sure that the little flowers that will join us on this day will be enabled to blossom through the participation and support of our well-wishers.
Q: Why did Crown Hair and Beauty decide to partner with ‘Dirijaya Prathiba 2013’?
Yaseen: Over the years we have been involved in a number of charitable initiatives but nothing on this scale and I felt it was time that we as an organisation gave back to the community we live in. The plan which was presented, the people who are involved and most importantly the community that will benefit the most from ‘Dirijaya Prathiba’ triggered my attention. When my dear friend Jazaya spoke to me, I was overwhelmed and wanted to help her in her attempts to do a service for those who are underprivileged.
Q: What do you think about an event of this nature?
Yaseen: My view is twofold. Primarily, an event of this kind will provide a platform for the less enabled to showcase their talents to the community. Secondly, it will create awareness, which is important in developing wider participation in the future. Wider participation will enable continuous sustainability and growth for ‘Dirijaya Prathiba’. We need to look more towards those who are in need as we are in a better position to help them and give as much as we can.
Q: What are the future plans for ETD?
Hasandeen: ETD has plans to take Dirijaya Awards to the north/east which is on the calendar of events, for which the much-needed funds will be raised through this program. ETD’s affiliation with The Management Club lends credibility to all programs organised by them. The objective of ETD Foundation, the CSR arm of The Management Club, to create a platform that gives equality to both specially challenged persons with talent and recognised talented professionals to perform on one stage is not an easy task, but since ETD has overcome many barriers in their path towards equality, this is also made possible.
Q: Who will be performing at the event?
Hasandeen: The show is choreographed and conceptualised by Amittha Weerasinghe, and supported by Nalinda Premaratne, of Abhina Academy of Performing Arts. The show will be compered by our very own Clifford Richards and Rasadari Peiris. Performances include Channa Upuli Dancing Troop, Ravibandu Vidyapathi, Kosala Dullewa and Foundation, Neela Wickramasinghe, Dushyanth Weeraman, Kushani Sandareka, Dayan Witharana, Col. Rajitha Ampemohotti, Lahiru Perera and Mekala Gamage.
A special dedication performance by the Bishop’s College Choir will also be featured, including the launch of the ‘Dirijaya Prathiba’ song written by Nawarathna Gamage.
The program line-up caters to little kids and adults, it’s for those who enjoy, music, acting and singing with a difference along to the most popular tunes.
Q: From where can tickets be purchased?
Hasandeen: You could purchase tickets available for Rs. 2,500, Rs. 1,500 and Rs. 1,000 from Odel Alexandra Place, BreadTalk outlets, Crown Hair and Beauty Salons and Sponge Pastry Shop or simple call 4866676.
