Extra Shots is a high energy live entertainment experience curated by Shereen Kumaranathunga and Chandralekha Perera, two influential figures in Sri Lanka’s creative and performing arts landscape. Conceived as more than just a concert, the event brings together music, performance, atmosphere, and audience interaction to create an immersive night of entertainment. With careful attention to production quality and artistic collaboration, Extra Shots reflects a commitment to raising the standard of live events in Sri Lanka while celebrating local talent. At its core, the event is about creating connection between artists and audiences, creativity and execution, and entertainment and emotion, offering a vibrant platform that is contemporary in spirit and rooted in meaningful storytelling.
SHEREEN KUMARANATHUNGA
You are known for wearing many hats including entrepreneur, and mother. How do you balance your personal life with your professional commitments?
Balance is something I continue to work on every day. I try to be fully present in whichever role I am playing at that moment, whether it is being a mother, working on a creative project, or handling business responsibilities. I set boundaries around my time and energy, and I am not afraid to ask for support when I need it. Having a strong support system allows me to function better both personally and professionally. Motherhood has made me more disciplined with my time and more intentional in my choices. I no longer say yes to everything. I focus on what aligns with my values and what adds meaning to my life and work.
What inspired you to step into event management and launch S-Three Entertainment, Marketing and Event Management (PVT) Ltd?
My journey in the entertainment industry exposed me to many beautiful creative ideas that sometimes did not reach their full potential because the execution was not strong enough. I felt there was a gap between vision and delivery. I wanted to create a space where creativity could be supported by structure, strategy, and thoughtful planning. That is how S Three was born. The intention was to create experiences that feel purposeful rather than random. I believe events are powerful storytelling tools. When done well, they leave a lasting emotional impact on people. S Three focuses on bringing together creativity, branding, and strategic thinking to create events that connect with audiences on a deeper level.
As the organizer of Extra Shots, what was your vision for this event, and what makes it unique compared to other entertainment shows in Sri Lanka?
My vision for Extra Shots was to create an experience that feels bold, fresh, and unapologetically fun while still maintaining a high standard of production quality. I wanted people to walk in and immediately feel the energy of the space. This was not meant to be a show where you sit and passively watch. It was meant to be something you feel and participate in emotionally.
The uniqueness of Extra Shots lies in the way the performances, the atmosphere, the lighting, the sound, and the audience engagement come together as one cohesive experience. I felt that audiences in Sri Lanka were ready for something that felt more immersive and modern, while still respecting our local music culture.
What are some of the biggest challenges you keep facing while organizing this event, and how do you overcome them?
Organizing an event of this scale comes with ongoing challenges. One of the biggest is managing multiple creative and technical elements while staying true to the original vision. There are practical limitations, time constraints, and unexpected obstacles that arise throughout the planning process. We address these by focusing on careful preparation and building a team that genuinely believes in the concept. Clear communication, the ability to adapt quickly, and a solution focused mindset help us navigate challenges as they come. Trust within the team is essential. When everyone understands the vision and works toward the same goal, even complex challenges become manageable.
How do you select and collaborate with artists and performers for large scale events like this?
Artist selection is about more than popularity. It is about energy, authenticity, and how well an artist fits into the overall concept of the event. For Extra Shots, we wanted performers who could bring personality to the stage and connect with the audience in a genuine way. Collaborating with Chandralekha makes the process very smooth because we respect each other’s creative instincts and communicate openly. We involve the artists in the creative process and work closely with them to shape performances that feel natural to them while still aligning with the overall flow of the event. When artists feel respected and supported, they deliver their best work.
Being associated with the arts for many years, how do you see the Sri Lankan entertainment and live events industry evolving in the coming years?
I believe the Sri Lankan entertainment industry is entering a very exciting phase. Audiences are becoming more exposed to global content and are developing higher expectations in terms of quality and originality. At the same time, local artists are becoming more confident in experimenting with new styles and formats. I see more collaboration across genres and disciplines in the future. There is also growing interest from brands and investors in supporting creative projects. With the right support systems in place and a focus on nurturing local talent, I believe Sri Lankan live entertainment has the potential to reach international standards and even attract global attention.
What advice would you give young women who want to enter the entertainment or event management industry?
The most important thing is to believe in your vision and your voice. This industry can be challenging and at times overwhelming, especially for women, but your perspective is valuable. Do not wait for permission to take up space.
Build your skills, stay curious, and be open to learning from every experience, including your mistakes. Surround yourself with people who support your growth and respect your boundaries. Start small if you need to but start. Consistency and resilience matter more than instant success. Most importantly, trust yourself and do not let fear stop you from pursuing what excites you.
How does your background in the movie industry influence the way you design and manage events today?
My background in the movie industry gives me a deep understanding of timing, storytelling, and audience engagement. I pay close attention to the flow of the programme, the emotional highs and lows, and how the audience experiences each moment. Working closely with Chandralekha, we look at every element, from music to visuals, as part of one larger story. This helps us create events that are not just technically well-organized but emotionally engaging and memorable.
What role does creativity and innovation play in your approach to event planning and entertainment marketing?
Creativity and innovation are at the heart of everything we do. We are constantly exploring new formats, ideas, and ways to engage audiences. Working closely with Chandralekha and Rookantha allows us to combine experience with fresh thinking. Innovation does not always mean doing something completely new. Sometimes it means taking a familiar concept and presenting it in a more meaningful or engaging way. Our goal is to create experiences that feel memorable and emotionally resonant, while also being strategically sound and professionally executed.
Looking ahead, what are your future plans for S-Three and your personal journey in the Sri Lankan entertainment scene?
I want S-Three Entertainment to continue creating innovative and high impact events that contribute positively to the local creative industry. Personally, I want to keep exploring new creative projects, collaborate with artists from different backgrounds, and support emerging talent. I see my journey as one of continuous growth. There is so much potential in Sri Lanka’s creative community, and I want to be part of building platforms that allow that potential to shine.
Chandralekha Perera
You have been a beloved voice in Sri Lankan pop music for decades. Looking back, what moments in your career feel most special and meaningful to you today?
When I look back at my journey, there are many moments that stand out as deeply meaningful. Joining the National Youth Council was a significant milestone because it shaped my early experiences as an artist. Being seen on television during the test transmission of Rupavahini and later singing at its inauguration were moments of great pride. Winning the Wijaya Rupavahini Award for Best Actress in 1986 and the Best Singer Award at the Sarasaviya Film Awards were also very special.
On a personal level, starting a new life with Rookantha in 1988 remains one of the most important chapters of my life. These moments remind me how far I have come and how much support I have received along the way.
You have collaborated with many iconic artists throughout your journey. How have those collaborations shaped you as an artist and performer?
Collaboration has been a central part of my growth as an artist. Working with different musicians and performers has allowed me to learn new styles, approaches, and ways of connecting with audiences. Some collaborations naturally develop into something special and leave a lasting impact. Singing with Chandrasena Hettiarachchi, Vijaya Kumaranatunga, and especially with Rookantha Goonetilleke has been deeply meaningful to me. Singing with Rookantha continues to be a new and exciting experience even today, both in the studio and on stage. Each collaboration has taught me something about listening, adapting, and growing as a performer.
As one of the organizers of Extra Shots, what inspired you to be part of this project, and what was your vision for the event?
I have spent most of my life on stage, performing and connecting with audiences. For a long time, I wanted to understand the other side of show business and experience what it takes to organize a show from the ground up. That curiosity, along with my friendship with Shereen, inspired me to be part of this project. Our vision is to offer people a quality experience that feels worth what they pay for. We want to bring together strong artists, a good band, quality sound and lighting, and an environment where people could relax and enjoy themselves. We are also paying attention to comfort, food, and facilities so that families and friends can enjoy the evening together.
How does this show reflect your passion for live music and entertainment in Sri Lanka?
Live music takes many forms in Sri Lanka. You find it on the streets, in concert halls, in quiet settings, and in places where people sing and dance together. Entertainment brings joy in different ways, and I have always believed in the power of music to bring people together. This show reflects that belief. It is designed to create a joyful atmosphere where people can relax, enjoy good music, and share an experience with others. We also listened to what people wanted and have included delicious food and refreshments as part of the experience so that it feels like a complete evening of entertainment rather than just a performance.
What can audiences expect from this event in terms of performances and overall experience?
Audiences can expect a lively and entertaining evening featuring some of the finest performers in the country. The lineup includes Raini Goonatillake, Windy Goonatillake, Chitral Somapala, Sanuka Wickramasinghe, and Rookantha Goonatillake, supported by the NEWS Band with Sarith and Surith. The performances are designed to offer variety, energy, and moments of nostalgia as well as excitement. Our aim is to give audiences a full experience of music and entertainment that leaves them feeling uplifted and happy.
How important are events like this for supporting local artists and strengthening the Sri Lankan entertainment industry?
Events like this play an important role in supporting not only artists but the entire ecosystem that makes live entertainment possible. Behind every concert is a large team of professionals including stage crews, sound engineers, lighting technicians, security teams, and food and beverage providers. When we organize events, we create opportunities for many people to earn a living and develop their skills. We are committed to ensuring that everyone involved is treated with respect and fairness. Strengthening the entertainment industry means supporting all the people who contribute to bringing these experiences to life.
- DATE: 20th February 2026
- TIME: 7:00pm
- VENUE: Cinnamon Lakeside, Colombo
- ARTISTS: Raini Goonatillake, Windy Goonatillake, Chitral Somapala, Sanuka Wickramasinghe, and Rookantha Goonatillake, supported by the NEWS Band with Sarith and Surith.
