If there was ever a perfect embodiment of the saying ‘the show must go on,’ it would be the upcoming dance production, ‘Epic Black’. Scheduled to be held on the 9th, 10th, and 11th of August 2024 at the Bishop’s College Auditorium, Epic Black will be the latest production put forward by Naomi Rajaratnam’s dance school, With My Feet. With a legacy of spectacular shows spanning decades, this year's show, Epic Black, will serve as a heartfelt tribute to the late  Trevor Rajaratnam, who was not only a pillar of strength to Naomi Rajaratnam but the whole troupe behind With My Feet. His resilience will live on through the show. Senior dancer of With My Feet, Kushan Seneviratne, reflected on the late Trevor Rajaratnam, stating, “This is solely dedicated to him and all he has done for the dancing community, and that is the most significant thing about the show.”

When asked what makes Epic Black different from the other shows, Naomi Rajaratnam highlighted that the theme this year will be very different compared to all the previous shows, while also humorously adding, “It will be all black.” Further adding to that, Kushan mentioned, “In terms of the show items, we have a vast range of items and a vast number of dance styles, and it's all cohesively put together to mimic the theme, which is called Epic Black, but not forgetting that there is colour added to it! ” The theme for this production is ‘from darkness to light,’ which beautifully encapsulates the journey of life through dance.  

The show will feature a diverse range of performances spanning from Latin American to Fusion dance movements. As a performer himself and someone who is heavily involved in the coordination of the show, Kushan expressed that there will be new choreography, a new theme, and new faces in the dancing industry that will be on display on the 9th, 10th, and 11th of August. Internationally renowned dancers, including Gunnar Gunnarrson, the UK’s five-time undefeated champion, and Manuja Hughes, the Blackpool Open Smooth Champion, will be gracing the stage for three days of spectacular dance displays.

Epic Black will also feature performances by Professional Ballroom European Champions and Professional World Champions, Roman Sukhomlyn and Jackie Stevenson, who are sure to add to the thrill of the show. Giving the audience a little sneak peek of what to expect, Kushan explained, “Roman and Jackie will dance in the modern form of dance, and Manuja and Gunnar will take the Latin side of it. They will come and do the variations of ChaCha, Samba, Rumba, and Pasodoble.”

Naomi Rajaratnam’s commitment to uplifting dance in Sri Lanka has allowed numerous dancers from around the island and from all walks of life to be a part of With My Feet. Naomi explained, “We have dancers from Panadura, Negombo, and two from Kurunegala who come by bus and train and go back the next day. I don't really scout them; they end up on my doorstep.” Adding to that, Johann Peries stated, “By seeing her previous work and what we've done, the word goes out and they see for themselves, and they want to be a part of what is done, and that is why they are so committed to come in from so far away.”

As the dancers prepare to take the stage and bring Epic Black to life, Naomi Rajaratnam’s heartfelt sentiment captures the essence of the show: “When I see them on stage, and I see them looking so beautiful and dancing with their heart - that's what makes me happy.”

BY NIMAYA NANAYAKKARA