The South Asian Dance Equity Final Conference 2025, held in the heart of London, showcased the UK’s growing diversity in dance. Among the participants was Nimna Perera, a Sri Lankan performer with the Kandyan dancers, who captivated audiences with her Kandyan dance performance.
Kandyan dance, a traditional Sri Lankan art form rooted in ritual and storytelling, took centre stage through Nimna’s skilled performance. Her solo act demonstrated precise footwork and expressive gestures, reflecting the rhythms of traditional drums and the narrative depth of Sri Lankan heritage. In the group performance, Nimna joined her fellow dancers in a coordinated display that emphasised the unity and cultural richness of Kandyan dance.
Sharing the program with contemporary ballet and African dance, the Sri Lankan tradition was brought to the forefront, challenging the dominance of Western forms on UK stages. The performance demonstrated that traditional dance styles deserve equal recognition and space in the arts.
Audience members responded enthusiastically, applauding the energetic conclusion of the Sri Lankan dance performance and noting the vibrancy of the costumes and music. For young South Asian dancers in attendance, this served as a powerful example that their cultural heritage can be celebrated on international platforms.
Sri Lanka’s contribution to the South Asian Dance Equity Final Conference extended beyond technical skill. By presenting the complexity and beauty of Kandyan dance, Nimna encouraged greater inclusion of traditional artists in mainstream UK venues.
