Dharmapriya Dias is a versatile figure in the realm of Sri Lankan cinema, stage drama, and television. Additionally, he has been a professional dubbing artist since 1995. His multifaceted talents encompass roles as a playwright, actor, set designer, choreographer, and art teacher, boasting a master's degree in theatre and drama. Notably, he serves as the instructor of performing arts and sculpture art at Shasthrananda Vidyalaya in Dehiwela.
Personal Life:
Within his family, Dharmapriya has a brother and three sisters. His educational journey led him from grade 1 to O-Levels at Sir Jhon Kothalawala College. He further pursued his studies at Piliyandala Central College, where his passion for drama began under the guidance of Premakumara Karunaratne. Dharmapriya is happily married to Anoja Milanthi, and their union has been blessed with two sons named Swarna Rawana and Prawara Bhashana.
Theatre Career:
Following his advanced level studies, Dharmapriya immersed himself in the world of stage dramas. Collaborating with fellow school graduates, he participated in a production that earned a spot in the final stage of the State Drama Festival. His theatrical skills were nurtured under the mentorship of esteemed Sri Lankan artists, including Bandula Vithanage, K. B. Herath, Jayalath Manoratne, Rajitha Dissanayake, Thumindu Dodantenna, and Chamika Hathlawaththa.
Dharmapriya's foray into stage drama direction commenced with "Saadaya Marai Salli Hamarai." This production achieved remarkable success, amassing over 200 shows within two years. The play received several accolades at the State Drama Festival in 2015, notably securing awards for Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Stage Management. The drama's final performance before a hiatus took place on November 20, 2016.
His mastery in set design is evident through various projects, including "Gahanu Vada Arabathi" (Lysistrata), "Sadaya Marai Salli Hamarai," "Mama Nevei Vena Kenek," "Julius Ceaser," as well as sets for Jayalath Manoratne's "Lokaya Thani Yayak" and Rajitha Dissanayake's plays such as "Siriwardena Pawula," "Sihina Horu Aran," and "Bakamuna Veedi Basi." Dharmapriya earned recognition for his set design with awards at the State Drama Festival, including his work on "Daasa Mallige Bangalawa," which he co-directed with Ruwan Malith Peris and Kalana Gunasekara.
Dharmapriya Dias continues to leave an indelible mark on the Sri Lankan theatrical and artistic landscape, with his contributions spanning multiple facets of the performing arts.