Sri Lankan Dance and Digital Technology: A study based on choreography in Sri Lankan dance in 21st Century.

Abstract

The focus of the study is to identify the issues which arise from the use of digital technology in the present day dance choreography in Sri Lanka. Many researchers have examined the authentic aspects and conception about Sri Lankan traditional dance when they move towards the performing stage. However, what is evident is the non-compliance with the fundamental ideology and, as a result the issues that arise from the use of digital technology in choreography to attain the expectations of the dance, dancer, theme and the audience, in modern day choreography practice in Sri Lanka. The obvious reason is the lack of resource persons who are well versed in the particular subject.ie; the choreographers who have the proper background knowledge. On the other hand, choreography is a scientific engagement in that the dancer must portray the authentic and original elements of the tradition he represents.With the application of the modern technological devices it has become a challenging process for the dancers. The conflict between the conception of choreography and the misconception of the digital technology is the most affecting factor according to the findings of this study. Thus, the present study aims to identify the risk factors of the application of new technology in the choreography in Sri Lankan dance tradition.