White Lotus actress Shalini Peiris' Journey to the Stage

In the second series of 'Sri Lanka: Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting Pot', host Dee Gibson interviews actress Shalini Peiris, who is set to appear in the third series of 'White Lotus'. They discuss Shalini's upbringing in a multi-faith household in Sri Lanka and beyond, and her journey from academia and human rights activism to acting. Shalini shares the gritty challenges and triumphs of her acting career, the impact of her heritage, and her experience on the stage, screen and on the much anticipated 'White Lotus' series. The conversation also explores Sri Lanka's creative industry and its cultural representation on the global stage.

00:00 Introduction to Series 2

00:54 Meet Shalini Peiris

02:20 A Sri Lankan Christmas

03:52 Shalini's Multicultural Upbringing

06:05 From Academia to Acting

13:36 Breaking into British Asian Theatre

19:52 The Grind of an Acting Career

33:58 Landing a Role in White Lotus

41:14 Sri Lanka's Creative Potential

44:56 Final Thoughts

Title: Sri Lanka: Modern Perspectives from an Ancient Melting Pot
Host: Dee Gibson — Sri Lankan-born, award winning designer based in London and founder of boutique hotel Kalukanda House in Sri Lanka. www.kalukandahouse.com | instagram @deegibson2017 & @kalukandahouse

Podcast Themes:

• Modern Sri Lankan identity and culture
• Architecture, art, and design
• Sustainability and heritage
• Diaspora experiences and storytelling

Why Listen:
This podcast offers deep, intelligent storytelling about Sri Lanka’s evolving identity — a blend of East and West, ancient and modern. It’s for listeners who love culture, travel, architecture, and thoughtful conversation.