Review of ‘Encore’ The 80s, 90s and More’ A night of Nostalgia

By Sharuni Weerasinghe

The Lionel Wendt Theatre saw a full house for Encore – The 80s, 90s and More, the latest production by the Revelations Mixed Voice Choir under the direction of Sanjeev Jayaratnam. The atmosphere was lively from the start as the audience arrived in high spirits, ready for a night of familiar hits from the 80s and 90s.

Since 2010, the choir, directed by Sanjeev Jayaratnam, has won international awards in choral music and have performed worldwide - and with Encore, they brought that same world-class calibre to Colombo.Their experience showed in the way the performance was put together - well-rehearsed, with smooth transitions between songs and a mix of music, movement, and staging that kept the pace consistent in a way that kept the evening lively and exciting. From the get go, it was evident that this wasn’t just a pop tribute show - it was a fully choreographed and creatively staged musical experience.

The setlist was packed with iconic hits, each reimagined with original arrangements that gave them a fresh twist, moving between upbeat pop and rock numbers to more reflective pieces. Livin’ on a Prayer had the audience singing and clapping along, while Don’t Stop Believin and I’m Still Standing encouraged strong audience participation, with moments of dancing, applause and call-and-response adding variety to the show. Brief acts and interludes between numbers, gave the show its own structure beyond a ‘standard pop concert’. Every performer on stage had put in effort to ensure the show ran as smoothly as it did, and it undoubtedly paid off!

Encore delivered a varied evening of familiar favourites with a few unexpected touches. Encore wasn’t just a celebration of the 80s and 90s; it was proof that great music, when performed with passion, precision, and creativity, never goes out of style.

The choir also performed How Great Thou Art in a contemporary arrangement, showcasing it’s range beyond the pop repertoire. Choreography was clean and coordinated, complementing the music without overpowering it. There were even original compositions woven in, including a song for Fairway Holdings, the title sponsor, that blended perfectly into the set.

One of the evening’s standout elements was the choir’s connection with the audience. Whether through Sanjeev’s playful banter, shared laughter, or moments of heartfelt sincerity, the performers ensured the crowd felt like part of the show. 

Overall, Encore delivered a varied evening of familiar favourites with a few unexpected touches. By the time the final notes rang out, the audience was energised, inspired, and humming along. Congratulations to the performers on a job well done, Encore wasn’t just a celebration of the 80s and 90s; it was proof that great music, when performed with passion, precision, and creativity, never goes out of style.

Audience Comments 

• Virangi Godamanna - ‘’It was really awesome I thoroughly enjoyed myself because it took me back to the 80s and 90s, these were all songs that I grew up with and the show itself took me through so many emotions.’’ 
• Susantha Caldera - ‘"I think it was a fantastic show, and as usual Sanjeev and the team did a fantastic job. Amazing work.’’
• Emasha Wijesiriwardena - "The show was really good, we enjoyed a lot. It was really nice to be here.’’
• Sanoj Dilshan - "The show was great, we didn’t expect such a high standard. We really enjoyed.’’ 
• Jayani and Aamaya Weerakoon - " We really enjoyed the show, specially the medley was amazing.’’ 
• Merlisha Peiris - "It was superb, I think the performances were amazing and so was the choreography. It was mesmorizing.’’