The Core and Inter-Circle of the Sri Lankan Mahidi Theatre: Presenting the Movement of Characters

Abstract

Mahidi is a social theatre in Sri Lanka where it is performed. It is a stage full of characters designed for the oppressed people to express their anger. The people’s resistance is shown by describing the conflict between the indigenous and the arrival through the game of magic and stratagem. In the center of this Performance Space, there are objects mixed with Brahmanar, sage, and mythology. The tribes take the objects placed in it and win. Around this, the roles of government administration and roles related to society act. This study provides the events in the two layers, the relationship between them and their uniqueness, and the dialectical status of the roles. Purpose of the study: To reveal how the Performance technique is found in the central circle and the second circle in the Performance Space of the Mahidi. Research problem: In the two circles of the Performance Space of the Mahidi, the characters in the second circle only talk to the surrounding audience. Hypothesis of the study: There is no close relationship between the center of the Performance and the second circles. Research Methodology: This study uses a descriptive research approach through a qualitative research design. The research tools used in data collection are fieldwork, interviews, and participation in Performance. Secondary data include books, websites, etc.