“The Noir Queen Kuweni” ballet enchants audiences at Nelum Pokuna Theatre

The curtains rose to thunderous applause at the prestigious Nelum Pokuna Theatre on 3 January 2025, as “The Noir Queen Kuweni” ballet mesmerised a sold-out audience. This groundbreaking production brought together legends from Sri Lanka’s artistic community, creating an unforgettable evening of cultural brilliance and artistic excellence.

The ballet, directed and choreographed by the renowned Chandana Wickramasinghe, delivered a spellbinding fusion of classical and contemporary dance styles. With an ensemble of exceptional performers from Chandana Wickramasinghe and the Dancers’ Guild, the show retold the poignant and powerful story of Queen Kuweni, a pivotal figure in Sri Lanka’s ancient history.

The production was further elevated by the masterful music direction of Peshala Manoj and the captivating performance of Niranjani Shanmugaraja, an internationally awarded actress, who brought the character of Kuweni to life with depth and emotion. Adding to the grandeur of the evening were Legendary Dancers Prof. Mudiyanse Dissanayake as Malaya King and Dr. Ravibandu Vidyapathi as King Paduwasdew, whose commanding portrayals and masterful movements enriched the narrative. The intricate choreography, emotive storytelling, and elaborate costumes transported the audience into a realm where mythology and artistry converged seamlessly.

The evening was graced by luminaries in Sri Lanka’s performing arts landscape, including celebrated dancers, choreographers, musicians, and theater personalities. Their presence underscored the cultural significance of “The Noir Queen Kuweni”, which boldly reimagines one of the country’s most enduring legends.

Audiences were particularly captivated by the production’s unique narrative arc, which delves into the tale of Kuweni’s love, betrayal, and vengeance. The highlight of the performance was the symbolic portrayal of the “Divi Dosa” (Leopard Curse), brought to life through evocative movement and dramatic stagecraft.

The event was proudly supported by the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau, whose vision to promote Sri Lanka as a premier destination for cultural tourism resonated strongly with the themes of the evening. This partnership brought a fresh perspective to the ballet, spotlighting the country’s rich cultural heritage as an integral aspect of its global tourism appeal. Through productions like “The Noir Queen Kuweni”, the Convention Bureau aims to highlight the island’s vibrant arts scene as a unique experience for both local and international audiences.

The sold-out crowd at Nelum Pokuna Theatre bore testament to the growing appreciation for contemporary interpretations of Sri Lanka’s historical and cultural narratives. Post-show feedback lauded the ballet for its innovation and cultural authenticity.

“The Noir Queen Kuweni is a bold step forward in preserving and reinterpreting Sri Lanka’s heritage,” said a leading figure in Sri Lanka’s arts community who attended the event.

The production, which previously gained international acclaim for its companion ballet Ramayanaya (Story of Seeta) performed in India, further cements Chandana Wickramasinghe’s reputation as a visionary choreographer. By celebrating shared heritage through dance, “The Noir Queen Kuweni” bridges the cultural legacies of Sri Lanka and the wider South Asian region, making it an ideal avenue to attract culturally curious travellers.

The immense success of the event was mirrored online, where social media posts after the performance drew widespread engagement. Fans and attendees expressed admiration for the production’s artistry, sharing highlights from the performance and praising its universal appeal.

With a career spanning decade and over 76 international performances, Chandana Wickramasinghe has redefined Sri Lanka’s performing arts landscape. Deeply influenced by classical South Asian traditions such as Kathakali and Rabindra Nritya, Chandana’s works reflect a seamless blend of tradition and innovation.

“The Noir Queen Kuweni” marks yet another milestone in his journey to promote and celebrate Sri Lankan culture on the global stage.