‘DOWN MEMORY LANE’ CD LAUNCH
View(s):The launch of the latest ‘Down Memory Lane’ compact disc featuring golden oldies, produced by ‘ Moratuwa Arts Forum’ (MAF) was held on Sunday, 25th August. The launch provided great entertainment camaraderie and fellowship to all invitees that included musicians, friends and well-wishers at the ‘Sooriya Music Village’ .
Lilant Jayaratne
Lincoln de Silva
Udena Wickremasooriya
Brian Coorey
The programme was precisely timed for one and a half hours, commencing with emcee, MAF treasurer Laksiri Fernando introducing president Lucky Deva to welcome the happy crowd . This was followed by the current secretary Anuradha Mack speaking about ‘25 years of MAF’ – detailing about the multitude of musical, other artistic and social responsibility projects the Forum had executed during the past 25 years.
Former Presidents Brian Coorey and Lankika Perera showcased the musical story of their proud hometown – especially since this year marks the Silver Jubilee of MAF .
There were many musical items sandwiched in-between for added entertainment. Many MAF singers came on stage to render the songs they had sung for the CD. The programme took the form of a mini sing – along session with the participants joining in lustily for most of the songs.
‘The Spirit of Moratuwa’ was depicted in song with the MAF singers leading the way with Moratuwa’s traditional ‘chain medley’- starting with the ever popular hometown melody ‘Pibidev, pibidev’ followed by a string of other favourites .
Speaking about this project, Udena Wickremasooriya of ‘Sooriya Records’ said that ‘Sooriya’ was always happy and committed to foster quality music , and as such welcomed this collaboration between them and MAF.
Anuradha Mack
Emcee Laksiri Fernando
Priya Peiris
Dr. Vijaya Corea
Well known stage personality and announcer Dr. Vijaya Corea came up on stage and spoke very highly of quality Moratuwa musicians produced from the good old days.
He congratulated MAF in their effort to preserve quality musical values.
Priya Peiris who initiated the ‘MAF – Sooriya’ joint project explained that this ‘Down Memory Lane’ CD is a ‘must buy’’ for all avid lovers of genuine golden oldies.
Some of the evergreens featured in this album include OLD FOLKS AT HOME, MY BONNIE LIES OVER THE OCEAN, CLEMENTIME, HOME ON THE RANGE, HAVE I TOLD YOU LATELY, SILVER HAIRED DADDY, UNDER THE BRIDGES OF PARIS, RED RIVER VALLEY, SILVER THREADS AMONG THE GOLD, TOM DOOLEY, WHISPERING HOPE, IT WAS ONLY A HEART, SOMETHING STUPID, GALWAY BAY, MARY ANNE, WITH SOMEONE LIKE YOU, PACK UP YOUR TROUBLES, TIPPERARY, SAINTS GO MARCHING IN AND OTHERS.
Priya Peiris making the CD presentation to Merril Fernando
MAF Girls: Shenya, Sureshni and Lankika
Lucille Pereira and Ramani Soysa