Performance in a Time of Terror: Five Sinhala Plays from Sri Lanka

This collection of five Sinhala plays translated into English explores the dynamic period of Sri Lankan theater and performance arts in the 1980s and 1990s, offering a political space for criticism, introspection, and protest during a time of suppression of voices and political violence. The plays were produced by talented dramatists and artists experimenting with forms and themes under challenging circumstances, with Kanchuka Dharmasiris introduction discussing the history and socio-political contexts of the theater of this period.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 146 pages
\n Publication date: 30 March 2021
\n Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd
\n

This captivating collection comprises five renowned Sinhala plays, skillfully translated into English, which were written and performed during the most turbulent period of modern Sri Lankan history. The remarkable translation efforts of Ranjini Obeyesekere bring to light and explore the vibrant era of Sri Lankan theater and performance arts during the 1980s and 1990s. These plays, crafted by renowned playwrights such as K. B. Herath, Prasannajith Abeysuriya, Dhananjaya Karunarathne, Prasanna Jayakody, and Rajitha Dissanayake, served as a powerful platform for political critique, introspection, discussion, and protest amidst a time of suppression of voices, political violence, and terror. The theater became a sanctuary for audiences seeking solace and enlightenment, as talented dramatists and artists navigated challenging circumstances, limited resources, and strict censorship to create works that pushed the boundaries of form and theme.

Kanchuka Dharmasiri's insightful introduction to the volume provides a comprehensive historical and socio-political backdrop, delving into themes of dissent, identity, and the oppressive power of the state. She also examines the unique formal elements employed in these plays, their influence, and their reach. This volume stands as a significant contribution to the expanding body of Sinhala literature in translation, offering valuable insights to scholars, researchers, and enthusiasts of literature, performance studies, cultural studies, and the politics and history of Sri Lanka.

\n Weight: 278g\n
Dimension: 234 x 189 x 17 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780367625153\n \n