Biography

Gayani Gisanthika Liyanaarachchi, born on December 28, 1973, has emerged as a powerhouse in the performing arts sector, leaving a significant imprint on both the film and television industries, as well as theatre, in Sri Lanka and beyond. From her initial training in drama and theatre arts at Sri Lanka's National Youth Centre, Gayani cultivated a career that blossomed into numerous accolades and roles in highly respected productions. Her early recognition began with a Best Actress award in 1993 for her role in “Tittha Kusalana” at the National Youth Theatre Festival in Sri Lanka, which heralded the start of a successful career. In the theatre world, she has portrayed remarkable characters in high-profile plays including "Che Guevara," directed by Buddhika Damayantha, and "The Streetcar Named Desire," under the direction of Champa Buddhipala. On the silver screen, Gayani has demonstrated her prowess through significant roles in films such as "Ammawarune," helmed by Dr. Lester James Pieris, and the acclaimed "Sarigama" directed by Somarathne Dissanayake, a role that won her a Best Supporting Actress award in 2016. Not confined to the cinema, Gayani has also been a prominent figure in television, earning critical acclaim for her roles in various series, notably securing a Best Supporting Actress award for her performance in the series ‘Maddahana’ in 2017. Her continued work within the acting sphere has solidified her reputation as a versatile and respected actress, garnering praise and awards for her emotionally nuanced performances across both film and television mediums. As she continues her journey, Gayani's extensive training, including courses at the Actor’s Lab at the University of Melbourne, combined with her relentless passion, fuels her ongoing contributions to the worlds of theatre and television, inspiring many aspiring artists and audiences alike.