SriLankan Airlines partners once again with the Gustav Mahler Society of Colombo (GMSC) to amplify the performing arts in Sri Lanka by supporting their ‘Spring Concert,’ scheduled for 29 March 2025, at the Lionel Wendt Theatre. This special musical event will feature renowned Sri Lankan classical guitarist, Jude Peiris, and Japanese guest artists Hiroshi Kogure and Miyuki Funatsu. Whether celebrating Sri Lanka’s rich artistic heritage or classical Western traditions, SriLankan Airlines, as the national carrier, remains passionately invested in nurturing homegrown talent and sharing their brilliance with the world.
Dimuthu Tennakoon, Head of Commercial at SriLankan Airlines, elaborated on the significance of performing arts from a tourism standpoint, saying, “As Sri Lanka continues to excel as one of the most sought-after destinations, the development of performing arts and the production of world-class performances can have a significant impact on tourism. Performing arts is a growing segment within the broader cultural tourism space, and if Sri Lanka is able to hone its talents and productions in music, theatre and dance, it holds immense potential to attract travellers in search of cultural experiences.”
Deepal Perera, Manager Corporate Communications at SriLankan Airlines, commented on the partnership, stating, “As an airline, we are all about connecting Sri Lanka with the world, and through this collaboration we continue to do just that. However, it’s not only about connecting people; we are also facilitating the exchange of musical talent and traditions between Sri Lanka and the world. We have a deep appreciation for the performing arts and believe in the immense talent of Sri Lankan people. With the right opportunities, we know our musicians are capable of making their mark on the world stage. By collaborating with the GMSC, we hope to create opportunities for our people. This partnership has been going strong for three years, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration as GMSC expands its outreach in Sri Lanka and beyond.”
Srimal Weerasinghe, Chief Conductor and Music Director of the Gustav Mahler Orchestra of Colombo, added, “It has been a great honour for us to have SriLankan Airlines as the Official Airline Partner of the GMSC for the past three years. The GMSC’s mission has been to establish a much-needed professional orchestra in Sri Lanka. SriLankan Airlines recognised the importance of this mission in 2023 and joined hands with us to sponsor numerous foreign professionals visiting Sri Lanka, becoming an integral stakeholder in the development of western classical music in the island. The Society’s efforts have enhanced the reputation of Sri Lankan orchestras globally, and undoubtedly, Sri Lankan Airlines has been a great pillar of strength in all our achievements for our country.”
With six successful collaborations with the GMSC to date, SriLankan Airlines, as a true ambassador of the arts, has also partnered with various other local organisations and foreign diplomatic missions to support and promote performing arts.
