TV Times

TV Times

Thusitha in search of a ‘Visitor’
By Susitha R. Fernando
Director Thusitha de Silva is busy these days, working on his fourth miniplay ‘Aganthukaya’ (The Visitor). ‘Aganthukaya’ is first experimental teleplay using 3D (three-dimensional), a technology which was not very popular, is yet to be released. His third ‘Madhu Nam Eya’ is still awaiting the release.

“‘Uththamavi’ was my second direction and later I did Punchirala, which is now being telecast on ITN. Presently I am in the production stages of my latest teledrama based on the short story “The Visitor” written by award winning Sri Lankan writer Punyakanthi Wijenayake” Thusitha told TV Times.

Punyakanthi Wijenayake prominent and distinguished writer is well known for her contribution to the Sri Lankan English literary field and has received recognition for her stylized narration and presentation. “Giraya” primetime miniplay telecast on Rupavahini was also based on Punyakanthi’s popular novel of the same name.

Teledrama Aganthukaya is a story that revolves around two women who are supported by several others, who act many minor roles. Each role has its own behaviour patterns while analyzing these patterns the story moves forward.

It is about a woman who hold the reins of power in her mansion as well as her immediate society. She is a selfish dominating woman who treats her husband with scant regard and less affection while the young widow who seeks to live with memories of her beloved husband enters this mansion as a “visitor” seeking accommodation.

The story, which is full of humour, satire and suspense revolves round the nuances of human nature, characterizing various behaviours patterns. Analyzing his vision in recreating his characters, the director, Thusitha says that man’s goal in life shouldn’t be success oriented bringing out feelings of greed, jealousy and anger but it should be a progressive commitment to caring, affection and love.

A keen student of arts and aesthetic studies while studying in science streams at Ananda College Thusitha made his entrance to the field in 1979 producing the play “Para Wasa Etha” staged at the College. This helped him later join filmmaker Pathiraja L. S. Dayananda as an assistance director.

Later his chosen path was very clear when making documentaries for many TV stations and different companies. Thusitha is now an experienced director with 70 documentaries with TV commercials to his credit.

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