Cultural Catalysts: Creativity in the Sri Lankan Diaspora

Playwright S. Shakthidharan, chef Manoli De Silva, and comedian Suren Jayemanne come together to discuss the ways history, creativity and Sri Lankan diaspora culture inform their work.

S. Shakthidharan's debut play Counting and Cracking began with a shoebox of his great-grandfather's letters. Working with his family and the wider Sri Lankan diaspora, he excavated his family’s history, weaving threads of culture and connection into a multi-award-winning theatrical epic following four generations over five decades. To celebrate the Melbourne debut of this global hit, Shakthidharan is joined in conversation by Masterchef sensation Minoli De Silva, who infuses her culinary artistry with Sri Lankan flavours at Darwin's Ella restaurant, and actor and comedian Suren Jayemanne, whose stand-up work draws on his experiences as an Australian with Sri Lankan heritage. Hosted by journalist Bhakthi Puvanenthiran, these acclaimed Sri Lankan creatives come together for an insightful and celebratory exploration of how personal narratives and cultural influences shape their craft, from family kitchens to international stages.      

Presented in partnership with The Wheeler Centre, RISING and University of Melbourne Arts and Culture (UMAC).