Victor Rathnayake "Sa" Avarjana

Victor Rathnayake is one of Sri Lanka’s most influential vocalists and composers.

Widely admired for blending Sinhala lyrical tradition with melodic ideas drawn from Western arrangements and North Indian ragadari influences, his landmark concert “Sa” (Sinhala: “ස”) is celebrated as a turning point in Sri Lankan live music. Regarded as the country’s first major solo-artist concerts, it premiered on 20 July 1973 and went on to deliver over 1,500 sold-out performances over the following decade. The enduring success of Sa helped set the benchmark for large-scale solo concerts in Sri Lanka and overseas for generations of artists to follow.

Victor also has a devoted fan base among Sri Lankan immigrants in Australia. This special performance will take audiences on a nostalgic journey through his greatest hits.  Fans can expect an unforgettable evening of timeless music and the opportunity to celebrate the songs that have touched generations. 

Three renowned Sri Lankan contemporary artists, Jagath Wickramasinghe, Raween Kanishka and Aditya Weliwatte will perform Victor’s songs, supported by vocalists and backing artists from Melbourne. 

Musical direction will be led by Melbourne’s own Indrajith Mirihana, who has directed numerous productions at Bunjil Place. The orchestra will primarily feature Melbourne-based musicians, giving them a rare opportunity to perform in front of their revered maestro.

Photography: No photos or video recording permitted at this event.