Today on the Buzz!!!! With Danu I speak to The Chitra Lane School about their upcoming show “Kids on Stage” which is in celebration of their 50th Anniversary. ‘Kids on Stage’- the fundraiser will feature students of the school and artists such as; Samitha Mudunkotuwa, Krishan Maheson, Lanthra Perera (Doctor), Tanuja Perera, Natasha Jayasuriya (Deanna School of Dancing), MB Imran (Imzy’s Dance Loft), Embark and Nilanka Silva (La Sari) along with ‘The De Lanerolle Brothers’ and a guest appearance by Otara Gunewardene, who will showcase their talents in support of the students to help showcase their talents. The event will be choreographed by Brian Kerkoven. 

Get your tickets today at the Chitra Lane School (45/3, Chitra Lane, Colombo 05) and online at www.tickets.lk. Call the school on  (011) 250 3906 for more information. 

This is a show not to be missed and I’m excited about sharing the stage with the talented kids and everyone else who have come together. 

How has the past 50 years been? 

The Chitra Lane organization is a government approved charity. It started in 1967, as a day school with two children. Today, we reach out to over 1,500 children and young adults annually from across Sri Lanka for the early detection and intervention of disabilities. 

Children with Special Needs participate in our programmes. We also see children who are attending regular mainstream schools who are having difficulties coping with their school work. In these cases we work closely with the child’s school as well as the parents in carrying out individualized remedial programmes. 

There are 4 main projects operating under the Chitra Lane organization. The Chitra Lane School established in 1967, Chitra Lane Resource Centre established in 1989, Chitra Lane Sheltered Workshop established in 2001 and the Chitra Lane Academy established in 2015. 

What is the biggest challenge you face running the school? 

Sponsors and dedicated new staff. 

Tell me about the show "Kids On Stage"? 

"Kids on Stage" is an evening of song, dance and fashion featuring students of the Chitra Lane School for the Special Child and some of the leading artists in Sri Lanka. 

Who are the participating artistes? 

Samitha Mudunkotuwa, Krishan Maheson, Lanthra Perera (Doctor), Tanuja Perera, Natasha Jayasuriya (Deanna School of Dancing), MB Imran (Imzy’s Dance Loft), Embark and Nilanka Silva (La Sari) along with ‘The De Lanerolle Brothers’ and a Guest Appearance by Otara Gunewardene. The show is choreographed by Brian Kerkoven and hosted by Danu Innasithamby. 

How can one buy tickets? 

At the Chitra Lane School (45/3, Chitra Lane, Colombo 05) and online at www.tickets.lk. Call the school on (011) 250 3906 for more information. 

For how long have you worked on the show? 

Rehearsals started in May and we have been preparing for the show since January. 

What's next for the school? 

We need larger space to cater to the growing demand. 

How can one help? 

We depend on kindhearted donors to find sponsorships for needy children. Please visit our website www.chitralane.org.