Japan Expo Premier Sri Lanka 2017 will be held from February 3 to 5 at the BMICH, Colombo.
This is the first time that such a large-scale Japan-focused expo is being held in Colombo, Chairperson and spokesperson of the Japan Expo Sri Lanka Exhibition Committee, Mikiyo Furusawa said. The exhibition is being jointly organized by the Japanese Embassy in Sri Lanka and the Sri Lankan Embassy in Japan in partnership with several other organisations including JETRO, JICA, Japan Foundation, and the Japanese Red Cross Society. The main objectives of the Expo are cultural exchange, providing opportunities for Small and Medium Enterprises and regional revitalization.
“The Expo will boost friendship and cultural exchange between Japan and Sri Lanka, and will help disseminate information on Japanese industry, culture, and products among Sri Lankans,” he said. Ayako Kobayashi, the actress who played the role of Oshin in the Oshin teledrama series, which became very popular among viewers in Sri Lanka around three decades ago will be a guest at the Expo. Takarabune, the famous Japanese Taiko and dance group will also perform.
A digitally projected film festival which includes the new film version of Oshin will be screened. Ankopyon (Little Bean Jim), Samurai Hustle, master director Akira Kurosawa’s highly acclaimed Seven Samurai (starring the equally well known Toshiro Mifune), Detective Conan (anime), Mobile Suit Gandam and Panda and Friends will be among the other films.
Depending on the genre and/or censorship rating, the films will be screened in either the main cinema hall or the Kids Hall at the BMICH. Two live music groups will be in attendance – B-Stations and Shinobu, while singer Acoon Hibino will also perform. There are two café zones (sado and kado) where all the workshops will be held free.
The Premier Expo promises a total package encompassing anime, cinema, culture, food and entertainment. Admission is free, but entry passes have to be secured early. Secure parking will be available.
Further information is available at the Embassy of Japan in Colombo. The Colombo Expo comes after a successful Japan Expo in Paris, France last year.