Mr. A. A. Saman Priya Lal

Qualifications:

• MA – University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
• BFA – University of the Visual and Performing Arts, Sri Lanka
• National Dance Final Examination (Kandyan Dance)
• National Dance Final Examination (Low Country Dance)
• Kathak Diploma – Bhatkhande Sangit Vidyapith, Lucknow, India
• Diploma in Youth Fine Arts (3 Years) – National Youth Service Council, Sri Lanka
• Certificate in Research Methodology and Scientific Writing – Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Sri Jayewardenepura

Profile:

Mr. A. A. Saman Priya Lal is a dedicated and talented traditional dancer and educator, known for his exceptional expertise in both Kandyan and Low Country dance forms of Sri Lanka. With strong foundations in classical and folk-dance traditions, he has established himself as an artist deeply rooted in authentic Sri Lankan heritage while maintaining a refined academic approach to his art. Having completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts at the University of the Visual and Performing Arts and a Master’s in Dance at the University of Kelaniya, Mr. Priya Lal possesses both theoretical and practical mastery. His training in Kathak dance from Bhatkhande Sangit Vidyapith, Lucknow, and his Diploma in Youth Fine Arts have further enhanced his intercultural and interdisciplinary artistic perspective. As a Demonstrator in the Department of Kandyan Dance, Mr. Priya Lal contributes significantly to student training. His traditional knowledge and hands-on experience bring vitality and authenticity to the learning environment. He has also played important academic and administrative roles, serving as Subject Coordinator for Ancillary Arts (Kandyan Dance) from 2023–2025, Student Counsellor of the Faculty of Dance and Drama (2020–2022), and Committee Member of the Teachers’ Association (2024). Mr. Priya Lal’s professional background includes active participation in prestigious performing groups such as the Bellwood Dancing Group (National Youth Service Council) and the Western Province Government Dancing Group. His commitment to teaching excellence is supported by certifications in Teaching for Higher Education and Classroom Management, obtained through the Staff Development Centre, UVPA

Research Interests:

• Kandyan and Low Country Dance Traditions
• Dance Pedagogy and Training Methodologies
• Classical and Folk Performance Studies
• Cultural Exchange and Global Performance Practices
• Traditional Aesthetics and Body Dynamics

Publications and Research Presentations:

• Abstract Presentation – International Conference on Fine Music (ICFM), UVPA
• Abstract Presentation – International Conference on Heritage (ICH), UVPA
• Abstract Presentation – International Dance Symposium, UVPA
• Article: “Siyana Koralaye Suniyam Sankalpaya” – Journal of Suniyam Concept (Chaminda Moragoda)

International Performances and Cultural Engagements:

Mr. Priya Lal has represented Sri Lanka in a wide range of international cultural programs and festivals, showcasing traditional dance and promoting cross-cultural understanding across continents.

Selected international engagements include:

• Hilton Food Festival – Sri Lanka (1996)
• Ravi Shankar Festival – India (1996)
• ITB Festival – Germany (1999)
• Disneyland Festival – USA (2000)
• Shopping Festival – Dubai (2000)
• Vesak Festival – Singapore (2003)
• Sri Lanka Association Cultural Show – Kuwait (2006, 2010)