Singapore’s Indian, Malay and Chinese arts communities are coming together for a special multicultural charity concert to raise funds for the Singapore Red Cross’ relief efforts in Sri Lanka, where Cyclone Ditwah has affected more than 2.3 million people.
Titled Dances of Unity: Rebuilding Sri Lanka, the fundraising performance will be held on March 5, 2026, at 7.30pm at PGP Hall. The initiative is supported by the High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore, the Maha Karuna Buddhist Society (Singapore) and the Singapore Sinhala Buddhist Association, with the Hindu Endowments Board providing the venue.
Sri Lanka was struck by Cyclone Ditwah in late November and early December 2025, triggering heavy rains that caused widespread flooding and landslides across several districts. The disaster led to extensive loss of life, injuries and damage to homes, infrastructure and livelihoods, further straining the country’s socio-economic stability.
Nationwide, nearly 2.35 million people from more than 668,000 families were impacted. As of Jan 14, 2026, over 2,700 families remained in safety centres, while more than 49,000 others were staying with relatives or in temporary accommodation. Assessments indicate that about 6,025 houses were completely destroyed, while more than 108,000 sustained partial damage. Religious institutions, schools and community spaces were also severely affected.
According to World Bank estimates, direct economic losses from the disaster amount to approximately US$4.1 billion, with reconstruction costs expected to exceed this figure as Sri Lanka looks to adopt climate-resilient rebuilding measures.
In response, several Singapore-based arts organisations have stepped forward to perform at the charity concert, including Apsaras Dance Company, Bhaskar’s Arts Academy, ERA Dance Theatre, Omkar Arts, Re Xin Opera Association, Singapore Indian Fine Arts Society, Svayambu Arts, Tatvah Productions and Temple of Fine Arts.
Former Ambassador and Former President of the Inter-Religious Organisation K. Kesavapany, who initiated the event, said rebuilding damaged places of worship and community spaces would provide much-needed relief to affected communities.
“When we approached the Singapore Red Cross, they were ready to partner us, and all the artistes agreed to perform free,” he said, noting the concert was also inspired by the Sri Lankan Tamil roots of Apsaras Arts.
Donor passes for the concert are priced at S$25, S$40 and S$100, with VIP passes available for contributions above S$100. Proceeds will go towards the Singapore Red Cross’ humanitarian assistance and recovery efforts in Sri Lanka
Tickets: giving.sg
