Landmark Russian Classical Ballet Concert today at Nelum Pokuna Theatre

Saturday, 27 June 2026 03:35 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Event to celebrate 25 years of artistic excellence and 70 years of Russia-Sri Lanka diplomatic ties “Once Upon a Silver Stage”

The Cultural Section of the Russian Embassy in Sri Lanka and the Maldives will hold a spectacular Russian Classical Ballet Concert featuring students of the Russian School of Ballet and Dancing today (27 June) at the Nelum Pokuna Theatre in Colombo.

This special concert holds dual significance, celebrating two major milestones: the 25th anniversary (Silver Jubilee) of the Russian School of Ballet and Dancing and the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Russian Federation and Sri Lanka. Russian classical ballet has long served as a cultural bridge between the two nations, and this event reflects the enduring strength of that bilateral connection. Approximately 690 students are set to participate in this historic performance, making it a landmark occasion for cultural exchange and artistic collaboration.

The event, titled “Once Upon a Silver Stage,” will feature two sessions (10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.) to accommodate high public demand. The concert will showcase the talent and dedication of the school’s young ballerinas through classical ballet performances inspired by the rich traditions of Russian dance, with breathtaking performances and special surprises promised for audiences.

The school has since grown from humble beginnings to now nurturing a few 100 students across Sri Lanka, with students recently took part in the 2025 Examinations overseen by the Moscow State Academy of Choreography . The school has been instrumental in preserving and passing on the traditions of Russian ballet and folk dance in Sri Lanka .

The concert is organised under the patronage of Counsellor of the Embassy of the Russian Federation and Director of the Russian House in Colombo Maria Popova; Russian Centre in Colombo CEO Buddhapriya Ramanayake, Cultural Officer Chandi Aluvihare and Founding Instructor Galina Pleshakova. Other experiences senior instructors include Samantha Samararatne, Niluka Madurawela, Radeesha Bodiyabadu, Shenaalie Dias and Inolka Perera, along with the junior instructors, Kavishka Premathilake, Nikini Fonseka, Vihini Samarasekara, Indeevara Miltaso and assistant teachers Ashani Perera and Oshinika Nethmini.

The Russian Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Maldives Levan S. Dzhagaryan, Cultural Affairs Minister Dr. Hiniduma

Sunil Senevi, are expected to participate as Chief Guests for the two shows along with other Ambassadors’ and Diplomatic mission around Colombo, high profile individuals from state and non-state institutions.