Narthana 2026: Celebrating Five Years of Sri Lankan Dance in the UK

Narthana 2026, the landmark fifth anniversary of the annual Sri Lankan dance showcase, is set for 20 June 2026 at Shaw Theatre, London. This event has become a vital platform for Sri Lankan performing arts in the UK, celebrating heritage, artistry, and community.

The previous edition, Narthana 2025, was a vibrant celebration featuring dancers, choreographers, drummers, and guest artists from the UK and Sri Lanka. The program included Kandyan, Ves, Pahatharata, Bharatanatyam, contemporary fusion, and live drumming, exploring themes of nature, imagination, transformation, ritual, and identity.

A highlight was the debut of KD Co.’s Ves and Pahim Path Class of 2025, presenting ceremonial items under the guidance of Sri Lankan guru Prasanna Rupathilaka and percussionist Koshan Mapatuna. Guest artists Hela Kala Arts Leicester also performed, offering a powerful blend of dance and narrative.

Original choreography by Dilini Seneviratne, Saravania Selvaratnam, Lampojan Raveenthiranathan, and Nisali Sisirakumara shaped standout works, from high-energy festival pieces to intimate explorations of personal themes.

Narthana 2025 raised £1,205 for the charity Sahana, supporting a dance program for underprivileged children in Sri Lanka. Narthana 2026 will support TFT - Their Future Today, continuing its commitment to positive social impact through the arts.

Since its inception, Narthana has grown into a respected event nurturing emerging dancers and encouraging cultural learning. The fifth anniversary promises to reflect on its journey and the future of Sri Lankan dance in the UK.