The Sinhala drama lovers in Australia were recently treated to a spectacular production in the tradition of “Deshiya Natya Sampradaya” by Champa Buddhipala, a well respected director and student of the great Prof Ediriweera Sarachchandra.
“Meth Thara” which was staged in Canberra, Sydney and Melbourne, had a story line influenced by Buddhist concepts of compassion and non-violence. The storyline was based in ancient India at the time of Emperor Asoka and Kalinga – Magadha war. The drama depicted Buddha Dharma, rather than a Jathaka Story. This is a deviation from the common practice, and a bold attempt to interpret the deep meaning of Buddha’s teachings.
Champa Buddhipala by writing the script and lyrics in Deshiya Natya Sampradaya based on a Buddhist concept and directing this 2½ hour major drama with a cast and crew of around 50 has taken on a challenging and expensive task. Also it is clear that through ‘Meth Thara’ he has created a landmark by creating a drama which followed the Deshiya Natya Sampradaya contained in ‘Maname’ and ‘Sinhabahu’, after several decades.
“Meth Thara” is a commendable piece of art, created by Champa and his drama troupe Sri Ranga Sabha dedicated to maintaining the high standard of Sinhala drama tradition.
Maithri Panagoda
(Abridged)
(Abridged)