Red Cross Hall Kandyan Dance
Experience the vibrant heart of Sri Lankan culture with energetic Kandyan dance performances and a thrilling fire dance finale.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Show starts promptly
Red Cross Hall Kandyan Dance
Best Time
Show starts promptly
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the vibrant heart of Sri Lankan culture with energetic Kandyan dance performances and a thrilling fire dance finale.
"An amazing show depicting local dances, musical instruments, and an impressive fire act at the end!"
🎯 Arrive Early for Seats
Get there before 5 PM to snag good ground-level or tiered seats. :seat:
💰 Reasonable Entry Fee
Entry is 2000 LKR, offering great value for an hour of cultural performance. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Kandyan Dance Performances
Red Cross Society Hall
Witness energetic dancers and traditional Sri Lankan rhythms that tell stories through movement.
Mesmerizing Fire Dance Finale
Red Cross Society Hall
The show culminates in a thrilling fire dance, a truly unforgettable and visually stunning act.
Traditional Sri Lankan Musical Instruments
Red Cross Society Hall
Experience the unique sounds of various traditional instruments that accompany the dances.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Experience
Understanding the Value and Culture
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Seats
Get there before 5 PM to snag good ground-level or tiered seats. :seat:
💰 Reasonable Entry Fee
Entry is 2000 LKR, offering great value for an hour of cultural performance. :ticket:
🔥 Don't Miss the Fire Dance
The fire dance finale is a spectacular highlight you won't want to miss! :fire:
🎶 Embrace the Unique Music
The traditional percussion might sound different, but it's an authentic part of the culture. :musical_note:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Seats
Get there before 5 PM to snag good ground-level or tiered seats. :seat:
💰 Reasonable Entry Fee
Entry is 2000 LKR, offering great value for an hour of cultural performance. :ticket:
🔥 Don't Miss the Fire Dance
The fire dance finale is a spectacular highlight you won't want to miss! :fire:
🎶 Embrace the Unique Music
The traditional percussion might sound different, but it's an authentic part of the culture. :musical_note:
🎁 Tipping is Optional
Dancers may ask for tips, but it's not required. Give if you feel they deserve extra. :moneybag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally praise the Kandyan dance show for its vibrant performances, authentic cultural display, and thrilling fire dance finale. While some find the traditional percussion unique, most appreciate it as part of the cultural experience. The reasonable ticket price and hour-long duration are also frequently highlighted as positives.
"I would definitely recommend coming to this cultural dance club to any tourist coming to Kandy! We initially went to a different dance show but due to the fact it is low season we were transported to this one. There is plenty of seating at ground level as well as up on some tiered seats. The show was an hour which was perfect to get a glimpse of the different types of traditional dancing styles in Sri Lanka. On our way out there were stalls inside selling jewellery and paintings and dancers asking for tips but this was not required. Entry was 2000LKR (£5) which I feel was very reasonable."
Charlotte Kember
"I am honestly impressed by all the negativity on other people's reviews. The show was amazing! It depicted local dances and musical instruments. There were 6-7 acts, more than 10 dancers and around 10 different musical instruments displayed. At the end, they did an impressive act with fire. The percussion instruments do make a weird sound. I can see why some people may find it annoying. But at the end, that is their culture! You pay to see that.
The show was 2000 LKR / $6.6 / €5.8 / £5.0. Were people expecting a Broadway/Disney show? Pfff. Also, tips are never enforced. They are just there in case you believe the performers deserved more.
It was 45 minutes in which the show never ceased to amaze me.
Super recommended. The place deserves more than the current 4.0 stars."
Leonardo Kuffo
"Visited the cultural show at Kandy Red Cross Society. Unique experience. Enjoyed it very much. It started at 5.00 p.m.
The fire dance at the end was amazing."
Dilshan Dissanayake
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Red Cross Society Hall is centrally located in Kandy. You can easily reach it by tuk-tuk or taxi from most hotels in the city. It's a well-known venue, so most drivers will know the way.
Parking can be a bit challenging in Kandy city center. It's often easier to arrive by tuk-tuk or taxi and be dropped off directly at the venue.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee is typically 2000 LKR per person, which is considered very reasonable for the hour-long performance. +1
Tickets can usually be purchased directly at the venue on the day of the show. It's advisable to arrive a little early to ensure you get good seats.
The show typically starts daily at 5:00 PM. It's recommended to check locally for any last-minute schedule changes, especially during the low season.
While advance booking isn't always necessary, especially during the low season, you can inquire locally or through your hotel if you prefer to secure your tickets beforehand.
Discounts are not commonly advertised. The current ticket price is generally considered a good value for the cultural experience offered.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The show is approximately one hour long, providing a concise yet comprehensive glimpse into traditional Sri Lankan dance and music. +1
There is ample seating available, including ground-level spots and some tiered seating areas, offering good views of the performance.
You'll see a variety of traditional Sri Lankan dances, hear unique musical instruments, and witness energetic performances, culminating in a fire dance.
Generally, photography and videography are allowed, but it's always a good idea to be discreet and avoid flash photography that might disturb the performers or audience.
Yes, the show is generally family-friendly and offers a vibrant cultural experience that children can enjoy. The energetic dances and fire finale are often a hit.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
Yes, on your way out, you might find stalls selling jewelry and paintings. Dancers may also approach for tips.
Souvenir options typically include local jewelry and artwork, offering a chance to take a piece of Sri Lankan culture home with you.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great way to introduce children to Sri Lankan culture in an accessible and entertaining format. The venue is generally comfortable, and arriving a bit early ensures you can get seats that offer a good view without being too close to the action if that's a concern. The reasonable ticket price also makes it a budget-friendly family outing.
💰 Budget Travelers
This performance is a highly recommended cultural activity that doesn't break the bank. It provides a rich experience that rivals more expensive tourist attractions, making it a smart choice for those looking to maximize their travel budget while still enjoying high-quality entertainment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Kandyan Dance
The music accompanying Kandyan dance is equally crucial, featuring traditional instruments like the Geta Beraya (a double-headed drum), Thammattama, and Rabana. These instruments create a powerful and hypnotic rhythm that drives the dance. The Yak Beraya is particularly associated with ritualistic dances. The unique sounds produced by these instruments are an integral part of the cultural experience, even if some find them unusual at first listen.
The performance at the Red Cross Society Hall offers a condensed yet captivating introduction to this art form. It's a chance to witness the dedication of the performers and the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. The show often concludes with a spectacular fire dance, a breathtaking display of skill and bravery that leaves a lasting impression on the audience.
Experiencing the Fire Dance
Historically, fire dancing in Sri Lanka has roots in ancient rituals and shamanistic practices, believed to have protective or exorcising qualities. Over time, it evolved into a performance art form, integrated into traditional dance showcases. The intensity and danger involved make it a thrilling experience for the audience, symbolizing power and transformation.
Witnessing the fire dance live is an unforgettable moment. The contrast of the bright flames against the dark stage, combined with the rhythmic drumming, creates an almost primal energy. It’s a powerful reminder of the deep cultural traditions that continue to thrive in Sri Lanka.
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