The Sri Lanka Foundation Academy of Performing Arts (SLF APA) proudly commenced its 2025 academic year by warmly welcoming new students on January 26, 2025. The SLF APA was accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges (ACS WASC), in 2019. Since then, it has established itself as a globally recognized institution. Dedicated to fostering personal growth and cultural excellence, the academy invites prospective students to enroll in its vibrant programs in 2025. The inauguration ceremony was graced by the esteemed presence of Dr. Walter Jayasinghe, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Foundation, and his wife, Aeshea Jayasinghe. The academy’s Operational Director, Achala Weerasinghe, along with the academy’s teachers, current students, parents, and new enrollees, contributed to the colorful and inspiring event. Achala Weerasinghe delivered a heartfelt welcome address, expressing her excitement for the new academic year. Following her speech, Dr. Walter Jayasinghe and SLF APA
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Join us every Sunday @ 12 PM for an exciting Sri Lankan Drumming class at 2010 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, California, 90057! Conducted by a very well-known drumming Instructor from Sri Lanka; Waruna Hemachandra Open to all ages, this class is a fantastic way to learn traditional rhythms and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Sri Lanka. No experience is required! Location: 2010 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, California, 90057! When: Every Sunday at 12 PM Don’t miss out—come and feel the rhythm!
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On December 15, 2024, the Sri Lanka Foundation Auditorium came alive with the vibrant energy, creativity, and talents of the students from the SLF Academy of Performing Arts (SLF APA). That evening was a highly anticipated event that became a true testament to the brilliance and dedication of these young stars, leaving every spectator inspired and in awe. What made this talent show so extraordinary was its entirely student-led nature. From planning and organizing to execution, the students took the reins with unwavering confidence and teamwork. Their passion and dedication were evident in every detail of the event, making it an unforgettable celebration of their abilities. Dee Croos and Shyanna Stanislaus lit up the stage as the dynamic emcees of the evening, their enthusiasm and charm setting the tone for a memorable show. Enal and Aken’s exceptional sound design added an electrifying layer to the performances, while Methaya’s impeccable stage
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The Sri Lanka Foundation Academy of Performing Arts (SLF APA) is delighted to announce its recent achievement: a six-year accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). This accomplishment marks a significant milestone for the academy and highlights its dedication to delivering top-quality performing arts education and continuous school improvement. WASC awards six-year accreditation to institutions that demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting exceptional student learning outcomes. This recognition affirms that SLF APA not only meets but surpasses the standards for educational excellence, providing a vibrant and effective learning environment. The academy’s ongoing efforts to enhance its programs have earned it this prestigious distinction. Key contributors to this achievement included educators Nirosha Wijegunasekare and Akila Palipana from Sri Lanka, alongside Umendra Kahadawaarachchi from the USA, who played pivotal roles in the accreditation process. Operational Director Achala Weerasinghe provided critical insights into the academy’s operations, while Public Relations Director
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Join the Sri Lanka Foundation Academy of Performing Arts! Unleash your passion for Sri Lankan Traditional Dance, and Drumming! The Academy is opening its doors for the 2025 Registration Day on: 📅 Date: Sunday, January 12, 2025 ⏰ Time: 9:00 AM 📍 Location: 2010 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 600, Los Angeles, California, 90057 Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to be a part of a vibrant community that celebrates Sri Lankan arts and culture. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned performer, there’s a place for you here! 📌 Save the date and register to start your artistic journey! ✨ 👉 Check out the flyer for more details!
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On September 27, 2024, the Sri Lanka Foundation Academy of Performing Arts (SLF APA) students performed in the World Peace Day and United Nations Day celebrations hosted by the Global Peace Foundation. Held at the Shahu Mahal Banquet Hall in Lakewood, California, this year’s event centered around the theme “UN for US: Unity and Diversity.” Distinguished guests, Including Mayor Todd Rogers of Lakewood, and Vice Mayor Cindy Allen of Long Beach, Dr. Lalith P. Chandradasa, Consul General of Sri Lanka, attended in support of this vision of global harmony. Achala Weerasinghe, SLF APA’s Operational Director, represented the Academy and connected with event VIPs, including Dr. Manorama Sharma Gupta, Founder and President of the Global Peace Foundation. SLF APA Senior Students Shyanna Stanislaus, Senuri Pilana Manage, and Methaya Wijemunige performed a traditional Sri Lankan dance, showcasing the nation’s rich cultural heritage alongside performances from other countries. Their presence highlighted the powerful
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ගුරු වරම් ලැබ ගෙන සබයෙන් වරම් ගනිමින සිව් වරම් බලයෙන බසී ඇදුරා වරම් ගනිමින! On August 18th, 2024, the Sri Lanka Foundation Academy of Performing Arts held its annual Silambu Mangalya (Ceremony of Awarding Silambu) at the Mindfulness Meditation Center – Covina Los Angeles Buddhist Vihara. This traditional event celebrates students who are preparing to graduate, marking an important milestone in their journey in Sri Lankan dance and music. In Sri Lankan arts and cultural traditions, a beginner’s journey in dance or music culminates in becoming formally recognized as a dancer or musician after mastering their craft. As part of this ritual, dancers don a ceremonial headdress, while musicians receive their instruments from their teachers in a significant rite of passage. With blessings from their teachers and family, students then showcase their skills before experts in their respective fields. This process signifies their readiness to practice independently. This cultural rite,
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On August 6, 2024, the Sri Lanka Foundation Academy of Performing Arts (SLF APA) conducted an inspiring workshop for students at the Los Angeles Performing Arts Conservatory (LAPAC) on Pico Boulevard. Led by the talented instructors Nirosha Wijegunasekare and Akila Palipana, with guidance from SLF APA Director Achala Weerasinghe, this engaging session celebrated Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage by introducing participants to traditional dance forms that have been preserved through generations, each showcasing its unique movement styles. The workshop immersed attendees in a variety of dance forms rooted in ancient rituals, emphasizing their narrative power through rhythm, reverence, and resilience. Each movement created a vibrant and graceful symphony that captured the essence of Sri Lankan culture. A highlight of the workshop was the Kandyan Dance, closely linked to the Kohomba Kankariya, a majestic celebration that invokes divine blessings from Kandy. Participants also explored the lively Low Country Dance, associated with
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The Sri Lanka Foundation Academy of Performing Arts recently hosted a vibrant and educational workshop at the APA Main Studio dedicated to the rich traditions of Sri Lankan dance and performance. This engaging event, designed specifically for the students, focused on the intricate aspects of traditional dancing costumes and makeup, offering an immersive experience of Sri Lanka’s conventional dancing costumes. The workshop, conducted by the school’s teachers Nirosha Wijegunasekare, Akila Palipana, and Umendra Kahadawaarachchi, aimed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the artistic significance of traditional Sri Lankan dance attire. Participants were guided through the process of donning costumes correctly, ensuring that each element of their attire was worn with precision and respect for its cultural significance. In addition to costume guidance, the workshop also delved into the art of traditional makeup. Students learned the techniques required to apply makeup that enhances their performance while preserving the authenticity
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The 2024 Sri Lanka Day Virtual Global Celebrations, presented by the Sri Lanka Foundation International, premiered to a worldwide audience on August 17th, 2024. Suffice it to say that Sri Lanka’s vibrant historical heritage and culture were showcased through splendid cultural performances from diverse corners of the globe. All that and more while being entertained by breathtaking fashion, traditional drums, and music from around the world, all enjoyed in the comfort of your homes. Here is a snapshot of our performing groups: The Global Celebrations began with a special tribute to our sponsors, whose invaluable partnership was instrumental in the event’s success. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Techno Dad, Sunland Group of Companies, J Med Supply Inc., Anon Catering, Uniformity, Holy Family Alumni Association of California, and Antonette Duval from Wells Fargo for their generous support. Their contributions were crucial in making this event a resounding success. Achala Weerasinghe,
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