On the big stage
Soon at the BMICH: Ishan and Rohan De Lanerolle
People argue that the BMICH isn’t meant for performances,” says Rohan De Lanerolle. But come September 6, the De Lanerolle Brothers hope to shatter that cliché once again with “Keeping it Real”. The third instalment of a series of shows at Colombo’s famous conference hall, the duo’s last two performances of “Keeping it Real” saw them take the stage to full houses.
For Rohan, the myth was debunked almost two decades ago when he performed as a member of the Philharmonic Players’ Society in the 1990’s. He recalls the operas they would perform, with many an international artist taking on the lead roles. “We didn’t use mics,” he remembers, with the orchestra playing in the pit and the natural amplification of the hall reaching the eager 1700 audience members who were as enthralled as Rohan was, as he performed as a minor lead.
But performing together as a duo and brothers is always the icing on the cake for Rohan and Ishan. Performing at the BMICH is also one of their more nerve wracking shows, they admit, the pressure of performing for a crowd ‘at home’ stirring more expectations from a very dedicated fan base that has followed the brothers on their musical journey since their inception.
While performing on this stage in particular is nostalgic for Rohan, Ishan admits that their show marked his first experience of singing at the BMICH. A change from their dinner shows, “Keeping it Real” allows the brothers to give their audiences a more theatrical evening “from a production point of view,” Ishan explains – the red carpeted walk into the hall, high roofs and the new lighting creating an atmosphere of grandeur and elegance for the show.
The shows have also expanded the brothers’ fan base to younger listeners who seem to share the duo’s love for classics from the 60’s and 70’s. This show too will see Rohan and Ishan sticking close to their signature harmonies and some fan favourites. Backed by live music courtesy of their band DLB2 this year’s show will feature hits from artists such as Engelbert Humperdinck, Whitney Houston, Sinhala pop classics and a few new covers as well. “This kind of performance allows us to interact better with the audience,” Ishan explains, hoping to keep their audience’s toes tapping and energy levels high.
The BMICH will present “Keeping it Real” by the De Lanerolle Brothers on September 6 at the BMICH, directed by Shobi Perera. Tickets are priced at Rs. 1,000 onwards and includes delivery to your doorstep for a collective value of Rs 5000 or more. For further details contact 0777996991.