Enchanted: A Celebration of Young Voices
By Noeli Jesudas
There is something unmistakably transformative about a musical evening. It has the ability to soften even the most formal of spaces, replacing stillness with feeling and anticipation with warmth. Enchanted achieved precisely that. Held on the 29th of April at the Lionel Wendt Theatre, the event unfolded as an evening filled with music, emotion, and a quiet but powerful sense of pride that lingered long after the final note dissolved into silence. Organised by Nadine’s Academy of Music Sri Lanka and directed by its founder Nadine Samarasinghe, the programme felt far more intimate than a conventional recital. It was, at its heart, a sincere celebration of growth, courage, and creative expression.
The evening began with a performance by Nadine Samarasinghe herself. It was a thoughtful and compelling opening, delivered with poise and emotional depth. Her presence immediately established the tone of the night, drawing the audience into a carefully crafted musical journey. There was a sense of assurance in her performance that seemed to ripple across the hall, inviting both performers and audience members into a shared space of appreciation and attentiveness. From that opening moment, the programme transitioned seamlessly through a diverse range of musical styles, blending pop, classical traditions, and Broadway influences with remarkable ease.
As the evening progressed, it became evident that the event was not merely about showcasing technical ability. Instead, it created a platform where students could express themselves authentically. Each performance felt personal, shaped by the individuality of the performer rather than constrained by expectation. The inclusion of piano segments throughout the programme reflected this philosophy. Students at different stages of learning were given the opportunity to present their work, each performance contributing to the broader narrative of development and discovery.
One of the most touching aspects of these segments was the visible support offered by Nadine Samarasinghe. During performances by younger students, she often remained close by, offering gentle guidance and quiet reassurance. These small but meaningful gestures transformed what could have been intimidating moments into experiences of confidence and encouragement. It was a reminder that teaching, at its best, extends beyond instruction into mentorship and care.
Among the many memorable moments of the evening, one stood out for its simplicity and emotional resonance. A three-year-old performer took to the stage, greeted by an audience that instinctively responded with warmth and encouragement. There was an understanding in the room of the courage required to stand under bright lights at such a young age. The applause that followed was not only for the performance itself but for the bravery it represented. In that moment, the essence of the evening became clear. It was about nurturing confidence from the earliest stages and creating an environment where every step forward was valued.
The choice of music further enriched the experience, offering a blend of familiarity and excitement. Performances inspired by artists such as Olivia Dean, Whitney Houston, and Adele resonated strongly with the audience, drawing on songs that are both widely loved and emotionally powerful. These pieces allowed students to connect with music that feels relevant to their own lives, making their performances more engaging and relatable. A lively tribute to Michael Jackson introduced a shift in energy, bringing movement and rhythm into the programme and adding a dynamic contrast to the more introspective pieces.
Contemporary influences were also present in the form of K pop inspired performances, which contributed a sense of freshness and modernity. These segments reflected the evolving tastes of younger generations and demonstrated the academy’s openness to diverse musical styles. At the same time, the programme maintained a strong foundation in classical music. Piano recitals featuring works by Ludwig van Beethoven and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart added depth and complexity to the evening. These performances highlighted the discipline and technical skill that underpin the students’ training, offering a contrast that enriched the overall experience.
What was particularly striking was the way these different genres coexisted within the programme. The transitions between classical and contemporary pieces felt natural rather than abrupt, creating a cohesive narrative that reflected the versatility encouraged by the academy. This balance allowed students to explore a wide range of musical expressions while maintaining a strong technical foundation.
Throughout the evening, Nadine Samarasinghe remained a constant and reassuring presence. Dressed in a striking red ensemble, she observed each performance with visible pride and attentiveness. Her role extended far beyond that of a director. As the founder of the academy and the first Sri Lankan to obtain a Fellowship in classical singing from the London College of Music, she has established a legacy built on dedication and excellence. This commitment was evident not only in the quality of the performances but also in the supportive environment she has cultivated.
Over the years, Nadine’s Academy of Music Sri Lanka has grown into one of the country’s most respected music institutions. It has trained hundreds of students, many of whom have gone on to achieve recognition in London examinations, all island competitions, and international platforms. Yet, beyond these accomplishments, what stood out during Enchanted was the culture of encouragement and individuality that defines the academy. Each student was given the space to develop their own voice, to experiment, and to build confidence through performance.
The presence of the chief guest Dr. Sulochana Segera added further significance to the evening. In her address, she spoke about the broader impact of music education, emphasising that platforms such as this extend far beyond the acquisition of technical skills. She highlighted the role of music in shaping character, building confidence, and enabling young individuals to discover their unique identities. Her words resonated deeply with both parents and students, reinforcing the idea that music education is as much about personal growth as it is about artistic achievement.
The atmosphere within the theatre was shaped not only by the performers but also by the audience. There was a sense of collective participation in the way each performance was received. Gentle applause followed delicate pieces, while more energetic performances were met with enthusiastic cheers. This responsiveness created an environment that felt inclusive and supportive, transforming the evening into a shared celebration rather than a one sided presentation.
Behind the scenes, the smooth execution of the programme reflected careful planning and coordination. The event was supported by sponsors including 99X, along with media partners Hi TV and The Sun. Their contributions ensured that the production maintained a high standard while allowing the focus to remain on the performers. Despite the scale of the event, it retained a sense of intimacy that made it particularly memorable.
As the evening drew to a close, there was a palpable sense of fulfilment within the room. It was not simply the culmination of a series of performances but the celebration of individual journeys. Each student who stepped off the stage carried with them a sense of achievement that extended beyond applause. They had gained confidence, experience, and a deeper belief in their own abilities.
Enchanted lived up to its name not through spectacle alone but through sincerity. It served as a reminder of the importance of spaces like the Lionel Wendt Theatre, which provide opportunities for individuals to grow, to express themselves, and to be recognised. The evening demonstrated that music, at its core, is about connection. It connects performers to their craft, teachers to their students, and audiences to the emotions conveyed on stage.
Ultimately, the night was more than a musical event. It was a celebration of progress, passion, and potential. It highlighted the quiet yet profound ways in which creativity shapes lives, fostering confidence and inspiring future possibilities. Long after the final note had faded, what remained was a sense of inspiration and a recognition of the power of young voices when given the chance to be heard.
