The
Director’s Role
Dharmapriya Dias is a celebrated Sri Lankan actor, director, and playwright known for his profound impact on stage, screen, and literature. With a career spanning decades, his work has shaped modern Sri Lankan drama and cinema, earning him recognition as one of the most versatile artists in the industry.
Dharmapriya Dias’s contributions as a director have been nothing short of transformative for Sri Lankan theater. Known for his visionary approach and commitment to storytelling, Dharmapriya’s directorial work is marked by a blend of cultural authenticity and modern artistic techniques. His directorial debut with Sadaya Marayi Salli Hamarayi was a landmark production that achieved both critical and commercial success, with over 200 shows and multiple awards at the State Drama Festival. This success set the stage for a series of productions that would establish Dharmapriya as one of the leading directors in Sri Lankan theater.As a director, Dharmapriya’s approach is hands-on and immersive. He is deeply involved in every aspect of production, from set design to casting, ensuring that each element aligns with his vision for the story. His work is known for its meticulous attention to detail and its ability to evoke powerful emotions from the audience. Productions like Mama Newei Wena Kenek, Lysistrata (Gehenu Weda Arambathi), and Julius Caesar showcase his ability to bring classic stories to life in a way that feels fresh and relevant to contemporary audiences.
Dharmapriya’s directing style is a unique fusion of traditional Sri Lankan theatrical elements and innovative storytelling techniques. He often incorporates symbolism and visual metaphors in his work, using set design and staging as tools to enhance the narrative. This approach not only engages the audience but also encourages them to think more deeply about the themes being presented. His skillful direction has earned him recognition for both artistic and technical achievements, particularly in the areas of set design and choreography.Beyond the awards and accolades, Dharmapriya’s true success as a director lies in his ability to connect with his audience. His productions are more than just performances; they are experiences that leave a lasting impact on those who see them. Dharmapriya’s work continues to inspire a new generation of Sri Lankan artists, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in theater and film.
His Notable Directorial works include:
- Binduwa (Short play)
- Popar mama saha pinturaya (Short play)
- Gehenu Weda Arambathi
- Julius Ceasar
- Sadaya Marayi Salli Hamari
- Mama Newei Wena kenek
- Missing (Short Film)
- Termites (Short Film)
