Kevin Cruze has survived opening nights, closing nights, and more backstage chaos than a Colombo wedding buffet. We’re diving into the triumphs, the teardowns, and the tea of a quarter-century in theatre. Today on Buzz with Danu, we’re going behind the curtain to hear the stories, the laughs, and all the diva moments 

And now, he’s marking this milestone with a brand-new play hitting the iconic Lionel Wendt from August 21st to 24th. So grab your tickets, grab your friends, and let’s get all the behind-the-scenes buzz before the curtain goes up! 

1. Kevin, 25 years on stage! Be honest — does it feel like a quick sprint or a very dramatic Sri Lankan teledrama with 1,000 episodes?
Honestly, I can’t believe how 25 years have flown by. At times, it felt like a sprint, but truthfully, it’s been more like a full-blown dramatic teledrama — the script changes without warning, the set falls apart when you least expect it, yet my team and I just find a way to keep going.
 
2. Can you remember the exact moment you decided, “Yes, I’m going to do theatre”? Was it an inspiring play… or just an excuse to skip homework?
Definitely not to skip homework or classes. Back in 1998, I was inspired by watching Richard III performed by St. Joseph’s College for the All-Island Shakespeare Drama Competition, directed by Jehan Aloysius. They finished as runners-up that year, and the college decided to showcase the play to all middle and upper school students, repeating it in Bonjean Hall. Whoever made that decision — I owe them big time. The moment I saw that show, I knew: one day, I was going to do this.
 
3. What’s the wildest thing that’s ever happened to you on stage in these 25 years — the kind of moment only live theatre can bless you with?
In 2023, we planned Decade of Classics — a mash-up of mini snippets from all my past productions to celebrate COLD Theatre 7’s 10th anniversary. Approximately over 100 Cast and Crew members are involved. Two days before opening night, it was cancelled due to unavoidable circumstances (don’t worry, we did manage to stage it later that month). It was definitely one of the worst times in my life— a true theatre nightmare. But looking back, it was a blessing in disguise. It tested my grit, patience, and character, and opened my eyes to things I’d been completely blind to… a reminder that in life, as in theatre, the toughest scripts make the best stories."
 
4. If your 25-year career were a play, what would you call it? And who would play you?
The name of the play could be ‘The Dark Knight’. 
I’d love to see Saranga Disasekera play me here in Sri Lanka — he’s got the talent and presence to bring the role to life. And if it were an Indian production, it would be amazing to have Thalapathy Vijay take on the part.
 
5. Let’s talk the upcoming show — if you had to sell it to someone in just three dramatic words, what would they be?
Nonstop Laughter Guaranteed
 
6. Over the years, you’ve worked with so many cast and crew members. Who has been the biggest bad influence… in the best way possible?
Honestly, every cast and crew member has brought their own kind of ‘bad influence’. However, if I am to pick one, it will be Wasaam Ismail, the biggest bad influence in the best way possible, of course. 
 
7. People always talk about “the magic of theatre.” What’s your magic? The thing that keeps you coming back, no matter how many sleepless nights you’ve had before opening night.
Theatre for me is definitely not getting any easier. With added responsibilities and approaching my forties, sprinting like I used to is no longer possible. But when I see the students and children I teach—the countless lives I have the privilege to touch, the smiles, laughter, and joy we share—that’s what keeps me going. It reminds me this journey isn’t just about me; it’s about the impact we create and the stories we carry forward. Contributing in any way I can to Sri Lankan theatre is the least I can do for my country and for the generations to come.
 
8. Sri Lankan audiences are unique. What’s the most unexpected reaction you’ve ever had from them?
Sri Lankan audiences are truly one of a kind — passionate, vocal, and deeply connected to the stories we tell. One of the most unexpected—and humbling—reactions I’ve ever experienced was when Decade of Classics was cancelled. Instead of criticism, I was met with overwhelming support. Most didn’t even ask for refunds; they had faith in my comeback and believed in me to bring the show to life. Sometimes, that’s exactly the kind of energy you need to get back on your feet.
 
9. If you could transport one of your plays to Broadway tomorrow, which one would it be and why?
If I could transport one of my plays to Broadway tomorrow, it would be Peter Pan. I believe the production quality and showmanship were exceptional. Bringing it to a global stage would not only highlight our talent but also put Sri Lanka firmly on the map as a hub for world-class theatre.
 
10. What’s the biggest difference between Kevin Cruze in 2000 and Kevin Cruze in 2025 — apart from, you know, better lighting and bigger budgets?
Back in 2000, Kevin Cruze was a fresh-faced, full-speed runner — aggressive, sometimes arrogant, hot-tempered, and a bit impulsive. By 2025, I’ve grown a lot calmer, mastered the art of patience, become more approachable and a lot nicer. Now, I focus deeply on the journey, the people I work with, and the stories that truly matter. And while the lighting has definitely improved, finding budgets for plays remains one of the toughest challenges
 
11. In 25 years, you must have played some memorable characters. Which role has been the closest to who you are in real life… and which role was the furthest?
The closest role to me has to be Hamlet — the sweet prince wrestling with his thoughts, emotions, and the big questions of life. As for the furthest? Definitely Julius Caesar. I'd like to keep the drama on stage and not off it.
 
12. You’ve seen theatre evolve in Sri Lanka. What’s one change you’re proud of, and one thing you still wish we’d do better?
I’m proud to see so many young people getting involved in the arts today — a far cry from when we started. These kids are truly the future of Sri Lankan theatre. What I’d love to see next is fairer and better pay for actors and artists. Of course, this requires many pieces to fall into place and for the industry to align properly. We may have to start small, but the important thing is that we start — and start now.
 
13. If you had to create a survival kit for young actors starting out, what would you put inside? (Props, snacks, wise words — anything goes.)
Forget smartphones — what every young actor really needs is a spark of positive energy to keep the passion alive and the stage shining bright.
 
14. Who would be your dream co-star or director you haven’t worked with yet — local or international?
Interestingly, I’ve had the honour and privilege of directing the ‘Godfather’ of English theatre and Kala Keerthi, Jerome L. De Silva. However, I’ve yet to have the opportunity to act in a production directed by the man himself. That would truly be a dream come true."
 
15. Finally, Kevin, on the closing night of this 25th-anniversary show, what do you hope the audience feels as they walk out of Lionel Wendt?
On closing night—and every night—I want the audience to leave Lionel Wendt with sore cheeks from laughter, light hearts, and high spirits. If they’re still chuckling and sharing the funniest moments with their friends, then we’ve done exactly what Run for Your Wife is all about—pure, unfiltered fun.
I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank every audience member who has believed in me, stood by me, and supported me throughout this 25-year journey in theatre."