Award-winning Sri Lankan dancer with Down syndrome performs at Penn State

From the Centre Daily Times in Pennsylvania:

Before he could walk, Kosala Dullewa would move to the music.

The 21-year-old Sri Lankan dancer with Down syndrome will perform “A Journey of Courage,” a two-hour performance of 19 numbers from his homeland, June 19 at Penn State.

The event is sponsored by Jabco-Maggi Mitsubishi, in State College, where Dullewa’s uncle, Damitha Karunaratne, the dealership’s business manager, got the idea to bring his nephew to Penn State.

“It’s an inspiration for all the parents who have children with Down syndrome like Kosala,” Karunaratne said. “It’s creating awareness about how far a child like this can go.”

This is Dullewa’s first trip to the United States. He spent the past week at the John F. Kennedy Center Very Special Arts Art Festival for performers with disabilities.

After lessons with renowned Sri Lankan dancers, in 2004, Dullewa made his first public solo performance, “Diriya Narthana.”

In 2006, a foundation was established in his name to assist children with disabilities in Sri Lanka. Since then, he has received many awards, including the Excellent Children of the Nation Award at the World’s Children Day and Gold Medal/All Island winner at the annual Competitive Festivals of the British and International Federation.

Karunaratne first saw Dullewa perform in Sri Lanka in 2005.

“I had tears in my eyes,” Karunaratne said. “When he performs, knowing the challenge he’s taking, the people would have tears in their eyes. It’s tears of joy, I’d say.”