Commander of the Navy declares open ‘Commander Premlal Danwatte Theater'

Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera on 07th October 2023 declared open the ‘Commander Premlal Danwatte Theater’ in the Welisara Naval Complex. The theater that was previously known as the Navy Cultural Dance Hall was renamed as a tribute from the Navy to the late Commander Premlal Danwatte, who served as the Director of Music of the Royal Ceylon Navy and the Sri Lanka Navy. The dignified ceremony, held under the patronage of the Commander of the Navy, was also attended by the President of the Navy Seva Vanitha Unit, Mrs Mala Lamahewa.

Late Commander Premlal Danwatte embarked on his naval journey in 1957 within the Royal Ceylon Navy. By 1965, he assumed the role of Director of Music for the Royal Ceylon Navy. Throughout a span of more than 25 years, he demonstrated remarkable dedication to elevating the Naval Music Department. His efforts led to a transformation, shifting from a blend of Western and local music to the realm of experimental music. This visionary approach not only left an indelible mark on the Naval Music Department but also resonated far beyond naval boundaries. Following his retirement, Commander Danwatte extended his musical influence to entities such as the Sri Lanka Air Force, National Cadet Corps, and Sri Lanka Police. In addition to his naval career, Commander Danwatte, a noted composer, director, instructor, and author, significantly enriched the music industry within the country.

As a mark of respect for late Commander Premlal Danwatte's exceptional contributions to the progress of the Navy Music Directorate and the music industry in Sri Lanka, the Naval Cultural Dance Hall has been renamed the Commander Premlal Danwatte Theater. In parallel with that event, the Portrait of Commander Premlal Danwatte was also unveiled by the Commander of the Navy.

On the sidelines of this occasion, in honor of late Commander Premlal Danwatte, the family members of him, in collaboration with the Philatelic Bureau of the Department of Posts, Sri Lanka released a unique commemorative stamp and cover.

During the event, the Commander of the Navy expressed that the late Commander Premlal Danwatte's influence extended far beyond the realm of Navy Music. The Commander of the Navy also acknowledged the maestro's unwavering dedication and efforts in enhancing both the reputation of the Navy and the Navy Music Directorate. In addition to naming the theater in late Commander Premlal Danwatte's honour, preserving his groundbreaking works for the betterment of the music industry, recognizing his dedication for the progress of music, and acknowledging his contributions to experimental projects that continue to advance the current Navy Music Directorate, stand as the most fitting tributes to his legacy, Navy Commander opined.

The occasion was also attended by former Navy Commanders including, Admiral Basil Goonesekara, Chief of Staff of the Navy, Rear Admiral Jayantha Kularatne, senior officers from the Navy Board of Management, officers from the Retired Naval Officers Association, officers from the Navy Headquarters and Western Naval Command, family members of late Commander Premlal Danwatte, former members of the Navy Retired Music and Cultural Dance Association and distinguished guests were also present on this occasion.