Cultural Catalysts : Creativity in the Sri Lankan diaspora

Playwright S. Shakthidharan, chef Minoli De Silva, comedian and actor Suren Jayemanne and journalist Bhakthi Puvanenthiran 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.

S. Shakthidharan will be signing books after the event. The bookseller for this event is Readings.

Counting and Cracking plays at the Union Theatre from 31 May to 23 June as part of RISING. Book tickets to the show.