ARISE SRI LANKA The Telethon

On August 29th, 2020, a new scene was created, in the local showbiz scene – Sri Lanka’s first-ever live streaming musical concert, to the world, via YouTube.

The brains behind that gigantic effort was Richard de Zoysa who has, in the past, been responsible for several innovative events, connected with the music scene.

The live streaming musical extravaganza was put together, very specially for the benefit of those upfront, in Sri Lanka, battling the coronavirus pandemic.

The open-air event featured the cream of local talent.

Richard was working on a second event when the Covid-19 scene created more problems, not only for Sri Lanka, but for the whole world, as well.

Not to be put off, by such setbacks, Richard is on the go…again.

‘Arise Sri Lanka – The Telethon’ is taking shape and is scheduled to be held, on Saturday, March 6th, 2021, at the Nelum Pokuna open-air theatre.

He has got the all clear, from the authorities concerned, said Richard, and ‘Arise Sri Lanka – The Telethon’ is specifically to seek public support for those who are doing a yeoman service to control the spread of Covid-19, in our island paradise.

People from all corners of the globe will be in a position to pledge their support, while the concert is in progress, said Richard.

He went on to say that this event will bring into the limelight 10 popular local artistes, singing two songs each, with Sohan & The X-Periments and the new look Aquarius band doing the needful, backing the artistes concerned.

In the meanwhile, Benjy Ranabahu, who leads the group Aquarius, indicated that he is eagerly looking forward to this big event.

“Although, as a band, we are relatively new to the showbiz scene, I’m very happy that we are being recognised in such an awesome way.

“To be a part of ‘Arise Sri Lanka – The Telethon’ is, indeed, a great achievement for us.”

Aquarius did do a spot at the live streaming concert, on August 29th, but this time their involvement is greater.

In the spotlight, on March 6th, will be Noeline, Marlon, Damian, Ishini, April, Trishelle, Shiyam, Dr. Nilanka, Jackie and Sharmisthar.