Iroshan Anuradha

About Founder

Early Education and Professional Journey

Iroshan Anuradha began his traditional dance education at the prestigious Budawattha Dance Academy under the tutelage of Guru Kulasiri Budawattha in 1998. By 2002, he had not only passed the Initiation Ceremony but also emerged as a professional Kandyan dancer. His journey as a professional dancer and drummer with Budawattha Dance Academy saw him contributing to all performances until 2004. In 2013, Iroshan graduated from the University of Visual and Performing Arts in Colombo.

Mastering the Art of Drumming

Iroshan’s drumming journey started under the guidance of Guru Algama Wedge. He further honed his skills under Guru Prasanna Rupathilake and was fortunate to study under Guru Piyasara Shilpadhipathi, a leading figure in Sri Lanka’s drumming community, at the University of Performing Arts, Colombo. Additionally, he expanded his expertise by learning Ghatam drumming from Guru Raghunathan and Hindustani Pakhawaj drumming from Prof. Karunarathne Kiriwanthuduva. Throughout his career, Iroshan has collaborated with renowned drum composers such as Piyasara Shilpadhipathi, Ravibahdhu Vidyapathi, and Prasanna Rupathilake.

Professional Drumming Career

In 2005, Iroshan joined the “Sama Ballet” Dance Company, one of Sri Lanka’s pioneering dance companies, as a professional drummer. From 2005 to 2013, he was an integral part of the Chitrasena Dance Company, participating in all their performances. He also trained the dance company at Mahanama Vidyalaya from 2004 to 2010, producing around 40 traditional dances and graduating students with the initiation ceremony under his guidance.

Founding Iroshan Anuradha Drum Ensemble

In 2006, Iroshan founded the Iroshan Anuradha Drum Ensemble. Since then, he has been conducting drumming and dancing classes, nurturing a new generation of professionals in Sri Lanka’s drumming and dancing community. His company has produced 12 students who have graduated with the initiation ceremony. In 2014, he created the traditional drumming and dancing performance “Sayanthurya” with his students.

Remarkable Compositions and Performances

Among his many creations, Iroshan’s notable drum compositions include works for “Samhara” by Nrithyagram Odisi Dance Company (2012), “NarthanAwarthana,” “NirmanakAya,” “Eternal Return, Sanni,” and several productions by Meranga Fine Arts Ensemble. He also collaborated on “Kesel Maduva” with Venuri Perera.

Contributions to Film and International Performances

Iroshan has composed drum scores for several distinguished Sri Lankan films, including “Siri Perakum” by Dr. Somarathna Dissanayake, “Sakkaran” by Dharmarisi Bandaranaike, “Garasarpa” by Jayantha Chandrasiri, and “Thala” and “Ekagei Sokari” by Jackson Anthony. His performances have taken him to international stages in India, America, Thailand, and Australia.

Awards and Recognitions

Iroshan has received numerous accolades for his contributions to dance and drumming. In 2003, he won 1st place in the solo dance category at the Island Dance Festival by the National Youth Services Council. The following year, he received a special award for his drumming achievements at the National Literature Festival. He has also secured all-island first places multiple times in inter-school national competitions.

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In addition to these national awards, on December 18, 2023, Iroshan Anuradha Warapitiya Acharige was honored by “Club Deportivo Movimiento y Salud Colibrí” in Valdivia, Chile. This recognition was awarded for his significant contributions and commitment to the development of Sri Lankan music, culture, and dance in Chile for more than 15 years. His efforts have been pivotal in fostering cultural integration and understanding between Sri Lanka and Chile.

Through his dedication and passion for traditional Sri Lankan dance and drumming, Iroshan Anuradha has made significant contributions to the cultural landscape, inspiring countless students and audiences around the world.