Cultural Catalysts: Creativity in the Sri Lankan Diaspora
Playwright S. Shakthidharan, chef Minoli De Silva, comedian Sashi Perera and journalist Bhakthi Puvanenthiran come together to discuss the ways history, creativity and Sri Lankan diaspora culture inform their work.
About the Event
S. Shakthidharan’s debut play Counting and Cracking began with a shoebox of his great-grandfather’s letters. Working with his family and the wider Sri Lankan diaspora, he excavated his family’s history, weaving threads of culture and connection into a multi-award-winning theatrical epic following four generations over five decades.
To celebrate the Melbourne debut of this global hit, Shakthidharan is joined in conversation by Masterchef sensation Minoli De Silva, who infuses her culinary artistry with Sri Lankan flavours at Darwin’s Ella restaurant, and lawyer-turned-comedian Sashi Perera, whose stand-up work highlights the joys and absurdities of language, culture and migration.
Hosted by journalist Bhakthi Puvanenthiran, these acclaimed Sri Lankan creatives come together for an insightful and celebratory exploration of how personal narratives and cultural influences shape their craft, from family kitchens to international stages.
Presented in partnership with The Wheeler Centre, RISING and University of Melbourne Arts and Culture (UMAC).
Counting and Cracking plays at the Union Theatre from 31 May to 23 June as part of RISING. Tickets can be purchased via rising.melbourne.
Accessibility
Accessible toilets available
Assistive Listening
Auslan interpreting available by request
Companion tickets available
Registered Assistance Animals welcome
Wheelchair accessible
For information regarding accessibility at Union Theatre, Arts and Cultural Building, click here.
Please notify us of all access requirements when booking online so we can assist you with your visit. If you require further information, please contact ticketing@wheelercentre.com.
About the Book
Featuring
Minoli De Silva is a passionate chef that brings a vibrant energy both on and off the screen, most recently won the hearts of a national and international audience with her delightful personality, endearing mannerisms and flavour packed food on MasterChef Australia Season 13. Minoli made it to the t... Read more
Sashi Perera is a Sri Lankan Australian comedian, writer and recovering lawyer. In 2023, she was nominated for Best Newcomer at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival for her debut show ‘Endings’ which sold out its runs in Australia and the UK. The improviser and yarn spinner was ... Read more
Bhakthi Puvanenthiran is a writer and editor. She is currently Editor of ABC Everyday, which covers family, money, sex and relationships, culture, food and much more. Bhakthi has previously worked as managing editor of Crikey, deputy arts editor at The Age and small business editor at The Age and th... Read more
Shakthi is a western Sydney storyteller with Sri Lankan heritage and Tamil ancestry. He’s a writer, director and producer of theatre and film, and composer of original music. Belvoir: The Jungle and the Sea (Co-written with Eamon Flack) and Counting and Cracking (Associate Writer Eamon Flack). His... Read more
Location
159 Monash Road, Parkville, Arts & Cultural Building, University of Melbourne
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