Trinity troupe in drumming treat

By Sharm de Alwis

From its beginnings, Trinity has displayed a reverence for Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage. The introduction of Kandyan dancing, Dumbara mat weaving, farming and woodcraft under able gurunanses and teachers, into the regular curriculum at the turn of the 20th Century came decades before the Government and other schools were inspired to act accordingly.

This tradition is still clasped passionately by Trinitians. Perhaps, Trinity's purest tribute to the skill and genius of our ancients is its chapel, built "in the vernacular", not to an alien Gothic or Byzantine design.

The TCK OBA, in collaboration with the School's Aesthetic Department has organized a multi-cultural event on Saturday, October 21 at the Ladies College auditorium. Included in the programme are performances by the Kandyan Drum & Dance Troupe, the Oriental Music Society, the Bharatha Natyam and Carnatic Music Society and the Western Music Society of Trinity College.

The Drum & Dance Troupe created in 1972 has over the years performed before local and overseas audiences to win accolades and prizes in Continental Europe and Great Britain, including the prestigious Eisteddfod Festival. The multi-cultural heritage and cosmopolitan composition of Trinity College will find expression at this opulent event.

The country's foremost painter, Stanley Kirinde who wears the mantle bequeathed to him by fellow Trinitians George Keyt, David Paynter and Donald Ramanayake will be the Chief Guest. Tickets are available at Eye Emporium, Flower Road (opposite Ladies College).