The 3rd iteration of Gandhar, organised by the orchestra of S. Thomas’ Preparatory School will be held at the Bishop’s College Auditorium on Saturday, the 22nd of October at 6.30 pm. Gandhar was originally organised to celebrate the 80th year of Prep School, under the guidance of the then Headmaster, Bishop Dushantha Rodrigo. However, its success led to Gandhar II in 2020 and this year, Gandhar III. A platform to showcase the talents of the students, Gandhar features song and dance performed to music through the ages showcasing items in English, Sinhala and Tamil by individuals and groups. 

Comprising genres like folk, pop, jazz and movie soundtrack music, the fusion of the East and the West has enthralled audiences over the years, keeping them at the edge of their seats. Gandhar has also provided students with a platform in which to perform their own compositions. In order to enable the Kandyan dance troupe to perform on stage during Gandhar III, a ‘Rangabisheka’ was held where the performers followed the sacred rituals that enable them to adorn their traditional costumes for the show. This year’s edition also features performances by Bishop’s College and Methodist College which will add to the diverse entertainment on offer.

Neth Wijesundara

I joined The orchestra in 2019 and got to be part of the 2nd Gandhar. I believe that Gandhar provides an amazing opportunity to showcase our talents. I’m a first violinist in the orchestra. I owe my ability to play the violin to Saranga sir and to this show which motivated me to get to where I am today.

Devshan Mendis 

I’m one of the more senior members of the orchestra which means I was fortunate enough to have been part of all 3 shows put on by the orchestra. I see this as a great platform to showcase the skill of our musicians. Since it’s not an easy task to put on a show like this, it’s important to acknowledge all the sacrifices and hard work everyone has put into this show.

Sesath Wijemanne 

I’m the youngest member of the orchestra. When I was in grade 4 I came to watch Gandhar II. After watching I really wanted to be part of the orchestra. This year my family decided to migrate but I chose to stay back and be part of this show. Another reason I’m excited about Gandhar is that it happens to fall 2 days after my Birthday.

Joshua Abraham 

The whole Gandhar journey has been one of many bendy roads. That is to say that this journey has been one of the challenges. However, every time we were faced with adversities we persevered and got its benefits. I’m grateful and glad to have been part of platforming new talents and motivating students to push themselves.

Yowel Dishan Warnakulasuriya  

I started dancing when I was in grade 6 as an aesthetic subject, 5 years later we got an opportunity to be inducted as traditional dancers. Moreover, this is the first time not only for our school but for the whole Thomian chain that a troupe had been traditionally inducted. Gandhar will be the first time we get to showcase our skills as dancers. For the first time in our school history, we have a dedicated dancing troupe of which I am the leader. We will be performing in several different styles and traditions. I’d like to thank Shan sir, our dance instructor for all the opportunities provided and all he has done in these 6 years.

Randesh Perera 

I joined the orchestra when I was in grade 6. When I joined, the orchestra had started practices for the 1st Gandhar. I’m very grateful for this opportunity and all I’ve learnt along the way.