🎤 Interview with Nilasha Kurukulasuriya Actress | Singer | Member of Born to Act Players & Meet the Biz

Nilasha, thanks for chatting today! Let's start with something exciting—what first drew you to performing, and do you remember the moment you knew you wanted to be an actress and singer?

Hello, my name is Nilasha Kurukulasuriya and I am a Sri Lankan American with autism. I always wanted to be an actress and singer since I was a little girl.

You’ve been a part of Born to Act Players and Meet the Biz—two programs that highlight inclusion and creativity. What have those experiences taught you about the industry and about yourself as an artist?

These experiences help me be confident and a become a better artist. 

Mary Rings has been such an important teacher for many in the BTAP community. What are her classes like, and what’s one lesson from Mary that has stayed with you?

I do improvisation, mirror image, modern dance to poetry, Shakespeare sonnets, choreography, one word, character or pantomime, pictures to life, machines, solos, and performances. Learning affirmations from Mary to help me become a better entertainer.

You mentioned learning everything from music scales to choreography to pantomime. How do those skills come into play when you prepare for a role or a musical performance?

These skills come into play by experiencing my character Belle in my Christmas Carol how she was sad and heartbroken.

You were in The Hunt for the Remote for the Easterseals Film Challenge—how did that project come together, and what was it like working with Brian Pierce and the rest of the team?

The project came together by Brian’s niece Sydney was writing the script, his sister Paula was directing us, Brian’s other sister Penny, her children were the extras, Brian and I were the leading roles and work great together.

The Hunt for the Remote for the Easterseals Film Challenge

Looking ahead, what types of stories or roles are you most passionate about playing? Are there any dream roles or artists you’d love to collaborate with?

The roles that I am passionate about playing are: antagonists, dark characters, historical characters, and teenagers. I would love to collaborate with Ed Sheeran, Jennifer Lopez, Taylor Swift, Backstreet Boys, New Kids On The Block, Justin Timberlake, and Josh Groban.

The entertainment world can be a tough and unpredictable place. What helps you stay grounded, motivated, and inspired on your journey?

What helps me stay motivated, grounded, and inspired by praying to Jesus, working with Mary, Brock, Jerry, Brandon, John Napoleon, Susan Yeagley, Cher Ferrera, and Joanna, thinking positive, and staying strong by not giving up.

As someone involved in inclusive programs like Meet the Biz, do you feel a sense of responsibility to help open doors for others in the industry?

Yes I do feel a sense of responsibility to help others open doors for the industry by communicating with others when they want to join. 

What advice would you give to other young performers—especially those who might not always see themselves represented on screen or stage?

The advice that I will give to young performers by thinking positive, never giving up on their dreams, staying strong, praying, reaching your goals, and believing yourself.

And finally—what’s next for you? Any upcoming projects, classes, or performances we should keep an eye out for?

BTAP classes and Shout Out To Friendship.