On the vibrant evening of March 30th, 2024, the Rowville Performing Arts Centre will come alive with melodies and rhythms, as the Australia Sri Lanka Cultural and Welfare Association (AUSCA) presents the නින්ද නෙන රාත්රිය Concert. This eagerly anticipated event aims to not only celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka but also to raise funds for the proposed ‘Detu Sevana’ Project, an initiative close to the hearts of many in the Sri Lankan community.
AUSCA, established in 2012 by a dedicated group of Sri Lankan expatriates residing in Northern Melbourne, has been instrumental in organizing numerous events aimed at promoting Sri Lankan culture and societal welfare in Australia. From the vibrant festivities of the Sinhala New Year Celebrations to the poignant performances of stage plays like “Dona Isabella,” AUSCA has left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Melbourne.
At the core of AUSCA’s mission lies the ‘Detu Sevana’ Project, envisioned as an Aged Care Facility exclusively dedicated to serving the needs of Sri Lankan elders. With the Sri Lankan community in Melbourne being the largest in Australia, the necessity for such a facility is undeniable. Despite the presence of aged care centers catering to other communities, there exists a significant void for Sri Lankans seeking culturally sensitive care in their golden years. The ‘Detu Sevana’ Project seeks to address this gap by providing a familiar environment where residents can receive specialized care tailored to their cultural, social, and religious needs.
The lineup for the නින්ද නෙන රාත්රිය Concert features two esteemed artists: Visharada Rohana Dharmakeerthi and the renowned singer Suneth Udayaratne.
Rohana Dharmakeerthi:
With an illustrious career spanning three decades at the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation, Rohana Dharmakeerthi is a name synonymous with excellence in music. As a Senior Program Producer and Deputy Director, he has not only shaped the landscape of Sri Lankan music but also garnered acclaim as a National Level Musician. His contributions have been recognized with prestigious awards such as Best Music Director and Best Singer at the Raigam Awards, as well as Best Music Director at the State Television Awards and the Signies Tele Awards. Rohana Dharmakeerthi’s mastery of melody and composition promises to enrapture audiences and leave a lasting impression.
Suneth Udayaratne:
Renowned for his enchanting voice and captivating stage presence, Suneth Udayaratne stands as a beacon of Sri Lankan musical excellence. As a grade A singer of the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation, Suneth has garnered widespread acclaim both at home and abroad. His musical journey, which began in 2015, has seen him perform in over 300 concerts, captivating audiences with his soulful renditions. Beyond his musical endeavors, Suneth’s talents extend to the realms of acting, where he has made a mark as a prominent figure in Sri Lankan cinema and television dramas. With a repertoire that spans genres and continents, Suneth Udayaratne promises to deliver a performance that transcends boundaries and touches the hearts of all in attendance.
The concert promises to be a memorable evening, filled with soul-stirring melodies and heartfelt performances, all in support of a noble cause. Ticket prices for the event range from $50 for Gold seating to $60 for VIP, offering attendees the opportunity to immerse themselves in an unforgettable cultural experience while contributing to the realization of the ‘Detu Sevana’ Project.
In a world where cultural preservation and community welfare are of paramount importance, events like the නින්ද නෙන රාත්රිය Concert serve as beacons of hope, uniting communities and fostering a sense of belonging. As attendees gather to celebrate the beauty of Sri Lankan music and support a cause dear to their hearts, they embody the spirit of generosity and compassion that defines the essence of AUSCA and its mission.
