A play depicting present political realities

Rajitha Dissanayake’s newest play ‘’Nethuwa Beri Minihek’’ (A Man Much Needed) will be staged at Namel Malini Punchi Theatre, Borella on January 29 at 3.30 pm and 6.45 pm.

Revolving around the family of Jayantha, a Sinhala nationalist businessman who enjoyed close ties with the previous regime, and worries for his future in the transformed political climate, “Nethuwa Beri Minihek” discusses the present social and political climate of Sri Lanka.

Jayantha’s son returns from London with a Tamil friend who is in search of his mother who went missing during the war. Meanwhile, Jayantha’s daughter is trying to make contact with her estranged mother, who left when she and her brother were toddlers.

“Nethuwa Beri Minihek” depicts the ultimate fate of these individuals, who embark on a quest for lost power and love.

Rajitha Dissanayake ranks among the leading original playwrights to emerge in the last two decades and has produced popular and award-winning plays like ‘ Weeraya Merila’, ‘Sihina Horu Aran’, ‘Apahu Herenna Be’, ‘Bakamoona Veedi Basi’ and ‘Adara Wasthuwa’. His scripts focus on burning socio-polical issues and have drawn c rowds, sparked debate, won awards and toured internaonally.

The cast of ‘’Nethuwa Beri Minihek’’ comprises Dharmapriya Dias, Shyam Fernando, Nadeeshani Peliarachchi, Bimsara Premaratne, Pasan Ranaweera, Anuradha Mallawarachchi, Nalin Lusena, Charindra Chandrasena and Kasun Chathuranga. The music design is by Kapila Poogalarachchi and make-up by Priyantha Dissanayake. The lighng is by Ranga Samarakoon and costume design by Nalin Lusena and Samadara Mabuluge. Vijith Nuwan and Nalin Lusena will be the stage managers. ‘Nethuwa Beri Minihek’ is organised by Jude Srimal.