Cues & Brews: Elevating Colombo’s Entertainment with a World-Class Snooker Extravaganza.

The Forum at Cinnamon Life was abuzz with glamour, excitement, and an unmistakable energy on the day of Cues & Brews, a snooker extravaganza unlike anything Sri Lanka had seen before. Conceived by Irene Sriharan, a barrister of Sri Lankan origin based in London, the event was a bold attempt to marry her passion for snooker with a vision to elevate Sri Lanka’s sports tourism and hospitality sectors. It was a day that set a high benchmark, showcasing not just the game but the potential of Sri Lanka as a destination for world-class events. 

From the moment the doors opened, the experience was nothing short of spectacular. The Forum at Cinnamon Life, designed for grandeur, finally fulfilled its purpose as it transformed into an arena reminiscent of the glitz and allure of Vegas or Macau. Lavish food stations, innovative cocktails courtesy of IDL, and an electric atmosphere created by the resident DJ from one of Colombo's most popular nightclubs ensured the event was not just about snooker; it was a celebration of entertainment and lifestyle. 

The audience comprised a vibrant mix of Colombo’s young entrepreneurs, socialites, and sports enthusiasts. But the real stars of the night were the four professional snooker players who graced the occasion: Joe Perry, Jack Lisowski, Ken Doherty, and the legendary Dennis Taylor. 

For snooker fans, it was a dream come true. Ken Doherty and Dennis Taylor, both former world champions, brought their decades of experience and charisma to the table. Taylor, in particular, thrilled the crowd with his jaw-dropping trick shots, leaving even seasoned players in awe. His charm and wit proved that legends never fade; they evolve into entertainers who continue to inspire. 

Jack Lisowski, the current rockstar of the snooker world, was the evening's undeniable crowd favourite. Known for his flair, precision, and dazzling talent, Lisowski had the room captivated every time he approached the table. His choice of walk-on music, a classic Gypsies baila tune, only endeared him further to the local crowd. The cheers and applause that greeted him were proof that Colombo had adopted him as one of their own, and a Sri Lankan sports star was born that night. 

Joe Perry, Irene’s business partner in Kingsman Sports Group and the calm, steady force behind this dynamic venture, impressed with his mastery of the game and his enthusiasm for being part of this ground-breaking event. His commitment to returning to Sri Lanka to further showcase his talent cemented the notion that this partnership is poised to revolutionize sports hospitality in the region. 

Irene Sriharan

Adding a local touch to the international line-up, Oshan Fernando, a Colombo-based lawyer and passionate snooker player, faced the professionals in a series of exhibition matches. Despite the immense pressure, Fernando held his own, earning the respect of the audience and proving that Sri Lanka has its own share of snooker talent. 

Cues & Brews wasn’t just about the game; it was about making a difference. In the lead-up to the event, the players spent a day donating sports equipment to local schools, reflecting a commitment to give back to the community. This gesture resonated deeply with attendees, highlighting the event’s broader purpose of fostering sportsmanship and development in Sri Lanka. 

Irene Sriharan’s vision goes beyond one-off events. Through Kingsman Sports Group, she aims to create a bridge between Sri Lanka and the global snooker community. By managing players in the UK and organizing events like Cues & Brews, she is not only promoting cue sports but also contributing to Sri Lanka’s cultural and economic landscape. 

The overwhelming success of Cues & Brews has already set the stage for its next edition, slated for the summer. The buzz is palpable, with whispers of an even grander event in the works. Kingsman Sports Group’s plans don’t stop at snooker; with their strong ties to the world of pool, Colombo might soon host a pool extravaganza, adding yet another dimension to Sri Lanka’s growing sports entertainment scene. 

For Irene, this is just the beginning. Her deep love for Sri Lanka and her desire to contribute meaningfully to the country’s growth are evident in every aspect of Cues & Brews. By blending world-class sports, top-notch hospitality, and a uniquely Sri Lankan spirit, she has created a platform that celebrates the best of both worlds. 

As the event drew to a close, it was clear that Cues & Brews had achieved something extraordinary. It wasn’t just an evening of snooker, it was a showcase of Sri Lanka’s potential to host world-class events, a testament to the power of vision and determination, and a celebration of the universal language of sport. 

For those who were there, it was a night they would never forget. For those who missed it, the countdown to the next Cues & Brews has already begun. Sri Lanka’s snooker scene will never be the same, and neither will its entertainment landscape.  Irene Sriharan and Kingsman Sports Group have lit a spark, and the fire is only just beginning to burn.