Jerome De Silva Makes History as First English Theatre Figure to Receive Sri Lanka’s Kala Keerthi Honour

Sri Lankan theatre director, actor and choreographer Jerome De Silva has made history by becoming the first individual from English theatre to receive the prestigious Kala Keerthi, Sri Lanka’s highest national honour for the arts.

With a career spanning decades, De Silva has made significant contributions to Sri Lanka’s theatre industry, with more than 80 productions to his credit. As the founder and artistic director of the Workshop Players, he has played a major role in developing local theatre while mentoring young actors and directors.

His work extends beyond the stage, with acting credits in international film productions. He starred alongside award-winning Hollywood actor Ben Kingsley in The Common Man and played Inspector Rao, the villain, in Good Marriages (1994).

In September 1996, De Silva was selected as a fellow of the Salzburg Seminar in Austria for Session 340, titled “The Power of Theatre, Artistry, Entertainment, Social Commentary”. He was one of two scholarship recipients selected from nominees across North Africa, the Middle East and South Asia.

The seminar brought together distinguished figures in theatre and literature, including playwright Arthur Miller, writer Ariel Dorfman, author André Brink, Royal Shakespeare Company director David Thacker, The Times drama critic Benedict Nightingale and University of East Anglia professor Christopher Bigsby. During his time in Salzburg, De Silva also participated in master classes with Royal National Theatre actors for André Brink and Ariel Dorfman.

His contributions have also reached the international music stage. De Silva helped coach the Soul Sounds choir for the World Choir Games in Xiamen, China, where the choir won two silver medals. He was also with the group at the competition in Graz, Austria, where its members secured three gold medals.

Throughout his career, De Silva has remained committed to nurturing new talent and creating memorable theatrical experiences for audiences. His dedication to sharing knowledge and supporting emerging artists has helped strengthen Sri Lanka’s English theatre community.

Reflecting on his journey, De Silva has encouraged aspiring thespians to remain humble and share their knowledge, emphasising that teaching others is also a process of learning. He has also spoken about his Christian faith, describing his belief in God and Jesus Christ as his greatest gift and expressing gratitude for the blessings in his life.

Now 74, De Silva continues to contribute to the arts. He is the producer of the musical adaptation of The Hunchback of Notre Dame, scheduled to run at the Lionel Wendt Theatre in Colombo from October 9 to 18, 2026.

His career stands as a testament to the enduring power of theatre, mentorship and artistic dedication, with his historic Kala Keerthi recognition marking a significant milestone for English theatre in Sri Lanka.