Types of Drama

1. Tragedy -- In general, tragedy involves the ruin of the leading characters. To the Greeks, it meant the destruction of some noble person through fate, To the Elizabethans, it meant in the first place death and in the second place the destruction of some noble person through a flaw in his character. Today it may not involve death so much as a dismal life, Modern tragedy often shows the tragedy not of the strong and noble but of the weak and mean,

1. Comedy -- is lighter drama in which the leading characters overcome the difficulties which temporarily beset them

1. Problem Play -- Drama of social criticism discusses social, economic, or political problems by means of a play.

1. Farce -- When comedy involves ridiculous or hilarious complications without regard for human values, it becomes farce.

1. Comedy of Manners -- Comedy which wittily portrays fashionable life.

1. Fantasy -- A play sometimes, but not always, in comic spirit in which the author gives free reign to his fantasy, allowing things to happen without regard to reality.

1. Melodrama -- Like farce, melodrama pays almost no attention to human values, but its object is to give a thrill instead of a laugh. Often good entertainment, never any literary value.

Theatre in Sri Lanka

         With a rich history of tradition when it comes to theatre, Sri Lanka has been producing a fine array of productions over the years.  This strong tradition truly stands as a testament to the literary art and a passion for the theatrics that can be found in the country.

Drama that was originated with the likes of plays and performances connected to religion, in terms of rituals and folk drama.  With the arrival of westerners and the birth of modern theatre, the expansion of this society has been steady and has grown to captivate the hearts of many. Some of the focal locations that are home to vibrant display of theatrics include Lionel Wendt, Punchi Theatre, Tower Hall and Elphinstone.

Sinhala theatre, is not only a stance of wordings and arrangement of vocal rhythms, but also includes song and poetry. Furthermore, the modern theatre that is synonymous at times with current events, sparks controversialist ideologies in society.

With the unveiling of magnificent plays and dramas such as Ediriweera Sarathchandra’s “Sinhabahu” and “Maname”, Sinhala theatre could not be more vibrant and promising. As ethnically attired actors take the centre stage, marvel at the literature that comes alive in mind, body and soul.  Visitors can look forward to acclaimed plays such as Sinhabahu and Siri Sangabo that was written by John De Silva, as well adaptations such as Tennesse Williams “A Two-Character Play” as they take the stage around Colombo.

Indulge in the literary feats of native art as well as modern theatrics, as you await the newest unveiling of vibrant plays and dramas in Colombo.

Sri Lankan Theatre and Cinema

          

               Theatrical art is an important element of the performing arts and literary society of Sri Lanka. With much of the population tuned into the likes of highly acclaimed plays and dramas, there is much to see within this country filled with art, culture and tradition.

Furthermore, Sri Lanka is also home to various genres of cinema. With the likes of critically acclaimed works of cinematography to bountiful amounts of Sinhala comedy, there is much to enjoy at the cinema. Take time to visit the local cinema and indulge in a healthy dosage of the latest film, local or international.

Cinema is also not dominated purely by local films as there is a healthy offering of films from India and Hollywood that can be seen here as they have a popular fan base.

With various theatre houses, as well as film halls situated across the country, many of the most acclaimed works of art are on show at Colombo. Take time to enjoy theatrical art as well as fine works of cinematography of Sri Lanka when visiting this wondrous island paradise.

Images of Stage Dramas

Sinhabhahu

 

 

Maname