Kirutharshan Nicholas

Kirutharshan Nicholas is a dynamic theatre artist from Jaffna, Sri Lanka, whose work spans acting, directing, lighting design, and cultural leadership. Deeply rooted in the region’s rich cultural heritage, his artistic journey began with a BA in Drama and Theatre Arts from the University of Jaffna, where he gained experience both on stage and behind the scenes.

Following his studies, Kirutharshan served as a temporary assistant lecturer at the university, sharing his knowledge and passion for theatre with young artists. Today, he continues to mentor and inspire as an instructor at the Sir Pon Ramanathan Faculty of Performing and Visual Arts, shaping the next generation of theatre practitioners.

Beyond academia, he is the artistic director of Kälam – Space for Cultural Encounters, a Goethe-Institut–supported initiative that fosters dialogue and collaboration through theatre, workshops, and exhibitions. Under his leadership, Kälam has become a vital platform for contemporary artistic expression in Jaffna.

Kirutharshan is also a core member of SUYAMBHU, a community theatre group dedicated to social change. Through street plays and workshops, he engages young people, using performance to address social issues and empower communities.

Internationally, Kirutharshan’s work has been widely recognized. In 2015, he designed lighting for History of Historiesand Traitor at the International Theatre Festival of Kerala, demonstrating his skill in creating evocative visual storytelling. In 2016, he was awarded the Art Think South Asia Fellowship, completing a residency at Mousonturm, Frankfurt, where he deepened his understanding of contemporary theatre practices.

His collaborations with the Goethe-Institut Colombo include productions such as Birds Who Forgot How to Fly and Nature Secret, staged across Sri Lanka and at the International Colombo Theatre Festival, where he contributed as a project manager, assistant director, and lighting designer.

Kirutharshan’s performances have reached global stages. He acted in My Name is Tamilzh, presented at the Basel International Theatre Festival (Switzerland) and SPIELART Theatre Festival (Germany), and contributed to the international production Made In in Hungary.

With a career dedicated to storytelling, education, and cultural exchange, Kirutharshan Nicholas continues to play a vital role in shaping Sri Lanka’s contemporary theatre landscape while bringing local narratives to the world stage.