CIDFA

CIDFA is a non-profit organisation dedicated to nurturing the rich traditions of classical and contemporary dance in Sri Lanka. Since our founding, we have created a vibrant community of dancers, teachers, and enthusiasts committed to excellence and cultural exchange.

Through annual festivals, workshops, and educational initiatives, we bridge generations and cultures — ensuring that the art of dance continues to thrive.

We envision a world where every dancer — regardless of background — has access to world-class training, performance opportunities, and a celebrated artistic identity.

Our mission is to foster artistic excellence, support emerging talent, and create meaningful cultural dialogue through curated events, education, and community programs.

Lakshman Manchanayaka

Lakshman Manchanayaka

Founder of the Colombo International Dance Festival Association, director of Lakshman Manchanayaka Dancing Academy, choreographer, instructor, workshop conductor, festival coordinator, and international cultural ambassador.

Education

BA (University of Colombo), MA (University of Kelaniya), PhD (Reading), DIP: AFTF Andong National University South Korea, DIP COMM: Poland — International Folklore Festival Ambassador.

Years directing dance education

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International CIDFA festivals led

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Festival participants per event

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Board of Directors & Advisers

Sandhya P. Podinilame

Sandhya P. Podinilame

Dance and Drama Education Instructor

Western Province Department of Education, Sri Lanka

A distinguished dance and drama educator with extensive qualifications in dance, education, drama, and theatre arts. Founder and Head of Prabhavi Art Centre, recognised for outstanding contribution to arts education and cultural development.

Professional Qualifications

  • Final examinations in National Dance and Drama: Kandyan Dance and Sabaragamuwa Dance
  • Intermediate Examination in Low Country Dance
  • Bachelor of Fine Arts (Dance), University of Visual and Performing Arts, Sri Lanka
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Education, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Drama and Theatre Arts, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka
  • Master of Arts, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka

Awards and Achievements

  • Outstanding Aesthetic Teacher Award – 2016, South Colombo Zonal Education Office, Piliyandala
  • Continuous victories at All Island Dance Competitions from 1991 to 2016
  • Vishwabhinandana Award – 2024, Department of Cultural Affairs, Sri Lanka

No. 09, Haramanis Lane, Attidiya, Dehiwala, Sri Lanka · 071 818 1229

P. Hettiarachchi

P. Hettiarachchi

Deputy Director of Education

Sri Lanka Education Administrative Service, Class 1

An education and performing arts professional with advanced academic qualifications in fine arts, education management, drama, and theatre.

Professional Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Fine Arts, University of Visual and Performing Arts
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Education, National Institute of Education
  • Master of Arts in Drama and Theatre, University of Sri Jayewardenepura
  • Advanced Diploma in Education Management, National Institute of Education

Staff Members

Shalika Prabudhi

Shalika Prabudhi

Assistant Coordinator

BA (University of Kelaniya).

Lakma Rasanjali

Lakma Rasanjali

Personal Assistant

BA in Demography (University of Colombo).

Desanda Fernando

Desanda Fernando

IT Support Assistant

2023

Starting year

CIDFA began its festival journey in 2023, creating a dedicated stage for dancers to gather, perform, and celebrate cultural expression.

04

Years on one dance floor

Four years, one dance floor, bringing dancers, teachers, and audiences together through the CIDFA festival.

Founder

Mr Lakshman Manchanayaka

The festival was founded by Mr Lakshman Manchanayaka with a vision to uplift Sri Lankan cultural dancers and create meaningful performance opportunities.

01

Preserve Heritage

Document and safeguard traditional Sri Lankan dance forms for future generations.

02

Foster Talent

Identify, nurture, and promote emerging dance talent through structured programs.

03

Cultural Exchange

Create dialogue between Sri Lankan artists and international dance communities.

04

Public Education

Build awareness and appreciation of classical and contemporary dance through outreach.

05

Community Building

Unite dancers, teachers, and enthusiasts under a shared love for the art form.

06

Artistic Excellence

Set and uphold the highest standards of performance, training, and artistry.

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