Academy of Performing Arts by Sri Lanka Foundation Intl.: A Cultural Gem in Los Angeles

Academy of Performing Arts by Sri Lanka Foundation Intl. Introduce

Welcome to the Academy of Performing Arts by Sri Lanka Foundation International, a unique and enriching cultural center nestled in the heart of Los Angeles. Located at 2010 Wilshire Blvd Suite 600, Los Angeles, CA 90057, USA, this institution serves as a vibrant hub dedicated to preserving, celebrating, and sharing the rich culture, language, dance, and arts of Sri Lanka with a wide range of audiences. It's more than just a place for classes; it's a bridge connecting the Sri Lankan expatriate community with their heritage and introducing the beauty of Sri Lankan culture to the broader Californian populace.

The Sri Lanka Foundation International, established in Los Angeles in 2003 by Dr. Walter Jayasinghe, is a non-profit organization with a mission to promote Sri Lankan culture globally. The Academy of Performing Arts, operating under its umbrella since 2015, is a testament to this commitment. Its vision is to nurture a vibrant artistic community, fostering artistic excellence and shared expression that intertwines Sri Lankan culture, music, and arts to build diverse, innovative voices that enlighten, engage, and inspire change.

For anyone in California curious about world cultures, passionate about dance and music, or looking for an immersive experience that goes beyond the ordinary, the Academy of Performing Arts offers a welcoming and engaging environment. It provides a unique opportunity to learn traditional art forms directly from their source, fostering cultural understanding and appreciation. From the rhythmic beats of Sri Lankan drumming to the intricate movements of traditional dance and the nuances of the Sinhala language, this center provides a truly authentic and enriching experience for children and adults of any cultural background.

The Academy of Performing Arts by Sri Lanka Foundation International is conveniently located at 2010 Wilshire Blvd Suite 600, Los Angeles, CA 90057, USA. This address places the cultural center in a prominent and accessible part of Los Angeles, specifically on Wilshire Boulevard, which is one of the city's most iconic and well-traveled thoroughfares. The suite number indicates it's situated within a larger building, likely a professional or commercial complex, common for educational and cultural institutions in urban settings.

Accessibility to the Academy is excellent for those across the Los Angeles metropolitan area. Wilshire Boulevard is extensively served by numerous Metro bus lines, offering direct connections from many neighborhoods. Furthermore, the location is relatively close to several Metro Rail stations, including those on the Purple and Red Lines (such as Wilshire/Vermont and Westlake/MacArthur Park), which makes it highly convenient for commuters relying on the subway system. This robust public transportation access ensures that individuals from various parts of the city can easily reach the center without the need for a private vehicle. For those who drive, while street parking on Wilshire Blvd can be limited, there are often paid parking lots and structures available in the surrounding blocks, though it's always advisable to allocate extra time to secure a spot, especially during peak hours. The central and well-connected nature of this location significantly enhances the Academy's suitability as a cultural hub for the diverse population of California.

Services Offered:

Sri Lankan Traditional Dance Classes: Formal instruction in various forms of traditional Sri Lankan dance, passing on ancient techniques and artistry to students of all ages.
Sri Lankan Drumming Classes: Engaging sessions focused on learning the rhythmic complexities and cultural significance of traditional Sri Lankan drums. Free classes are specifically advertised for Sunday at 12 PM.
Sinhala Language Classes: Instruction in the official language of Sri Lanka, catering to those interested in cultural immersion or connecting with their heritage.
Workshops and Educational Outreach Programs: Community-focused initiatives designed to share Sri Lankan culture and arts with a wider audience through interactive sessions.
Performances and Productions: The Academy frequently organizes and participates in cultural shows, events, and performances that showcase Sri Lankan music, dance, and arts to the public.
Traditional and Fusion Dancers for Events: Provides professional dancers for various occasions, including cultural events, festivals, and private functions.
Traditional Drummers for Events: Offers skilled drummers to add an authentic Sri Lankan rhythmic element to events.
Traditional Wedding Services: Specialized services that incorporate Sri Lankan cultural elements into wedding ceremonies.
Special Choreography Services: Custom choreography for all occasions, blending traditional Sri Lankan styles with contemporary needs.
Community Engagement: Actively works with the community to build multicultural awareness and foster a vibrant artistic community.

Features / Highlights:

Dedicated to Sri Lankan Culture: Solely focused on preserving, supporting, celebrating, and presenting the culture, language, dance, and arts of Sri Lanka.
Authentic Instruction: Provides formal instruction in traditional Sri Lankan art forms, ensuring authenticity and depth of knowledge.
Multicultural Awareness: Actively works to build understanding and appreciation of Sri Lankan culture within the broader multicultural community of Los Angeles.
Community-Driven Mission: Aims to bring together like-minded people to form a vibrant community dedicated to dance, diversity, and inclusivity.
Performance Opportunities: Students have participated in over 40 cultural events, including international travel shows, multicultural festivals, and state-sponsored events.
Welcomes All Cultures and Ages: Children and adults from any cultural background are welcome to join classes, promoting inclusivity.
Expert Leadership: Operates under the umbrella of the Sri Lanka Foundation International, founded by Dr. Walter Jayasinghe, a prominent figure in the Sri Lankan expatriate community.
Diverse Offerings: Beyond dance and music, also offers language classes and cultural services like traditional wedding planning.
"Free Classes: Discover Sri Lankan Drumming Every Sunday at 12 PM": A specific highlight offering an accessible entry point for new participants.
Focus on Artistic Excellence: Seeks to nurture a vibrant artistic community and foster high standards in performance and expression.

Contact Information:

Address: 2010 Wilshire Blvd Suite 600, Los Angeles, CA 90057, USA

Phone: (323) 905-4753

Mobile Phone: +1 323-905-4753

For locals in California, particularly those residing in the diverse and culturally rich city of Los Angeles, the Academy of Performing Arts by Sri Lanka Foundation International is an exceptionally suitable and enriching point of interest. Its unique mission and offerings make it a valuable resource for several reasons.

Firstly, its strategic location on Wilshire Boulevard, a major artery in Los Angeles, ensures excellent accessibility. For individuals and families interested in exploring new cultural experiences or connecting with their Sri Lankan heritage, the ease of reaching the Academy via robust public transportation options (both bus and Metro Rail) or by car is a significant advantage. This central positioning allows a wide cross-section of the Los Angeles community to engage with the vibrant programs offered.

Secondly, the Academy provides a rare and authentic opportunity to immerse oneself in Sri Lankan culture through its traditional dance, drumming, and language classes. In a melting pot like California, access to such specialized cultural education is invaluable for fostering global awareness and personal enrichment. Whether someone is of Sri Lankan descent looking to connect with their roots or simply a curious individual eager to learn about a new culture, the Academy offers expert instruction in a welcoming environment for all ages and cultural backgrounds. The offer of free drumming classes on Sundays is a particularly inviting feature for newcomers to experience the culture.

Furthermore, the Academy's commitment to building multicultural awareness and fostering a vibrant artistic community makes it more than just a place of learning; it's a place of connection. By bringing together like-minded individuals and providing numerous performance opportunities in local and international events, the Academy strengthens community bonds and provides a platform for artistic expression. This active engagement enriches the cultural landscape of Los Angeles and offers students a sense of belonging and accomplishment.

Finally, the overarching mission of the Sri Lanka Foundation International to promote Sri Lankan culture and build bridges between communities aligns perfectly with the diverse and inclusive spirit of California. By supporting this Academy, locals not only gain access to unique artistic and educational opportunities but also contribute to the broader mission of cultural understanding and appreciation. For those seeking to expand their horizons, engage with a vibrant community, and celebrate the beauty of global cultures, the Academy of Performing Arts by Sri Lanka Foundation International is an ideal and highly suitable destination right here in Los Angeles.