Nelum Pokuna Theatre

The Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre also known as Nelum Pokuna Theatre is a performing arts centre in Colombo city. It was officially opened to the public on 15th December 2011. The Design of Nelum Pokuna theatre is inspired by the 12th-century lotus pond (Nelum Pokuna) in Polonnaruwa district which was built by King Parakramabahu the Great. The Lotus Pond in Polonnaruwa districts shaped like a stylised eight-petalled lotus flower.

It cost approximately 3080 million in LKR to complete the construction of Nelum Pokuna Theatre in LKR 2430 million was provided by the Government of the People’s Republic of China. Nelum Pokuna spreads over 14,000 square metres area in the floor. The inside of the Nelum Pokuna Theatre is well furnished with stylish and modern facilities like a library, an auditorium with 1000+ seating facilities and training facilities.

The theatre features two permanent auditorium – the main auditorium and the open-air theatre. The 690-square-metre moving stage in the auditorium has the ability to raise up from stage level and lower down the orchestra pit as well. In Nelum Pokuna theatre there is a facility to park 500 vehicles. Also, there are facilities to conduct research and educational activities at the Nelum Pokuna Theatre. Altogether Nelum Pokuna theatre is performing arts centre for Sri Lankans to conduct big Music events, Concerts, Theatrical events, Dance programs, and International Conferences.