Ladies and gentlemen… buckle up your dreams and warm up your hearts because on Buzz this week, we have a voice that Sri Lanka has adored for years. A powerhouse, a storyteller, a teacher, and a woman who sings straight from the soul.

She’s stepping back onto the stage with a show that promises heart, nostalgia, power, and goosebumps all wrapped into one magical night.

This is “If I Can Dream”, and trust me… after hearing her talk, you’ll want to dream with her too.

From Jazz to Gospel, Broadway to Pop, from the quiet whispers of emotion to those big cinematic notes Shanelle is ready to take you on a journey that feels personal, spiritual, and beautifully human.

All about her show on the buzz this week!! 

1.      What was the idea or inspiration behind the title “If I Can Dream”?
In a broader perspective, this title represents a special desire, along with my dream of sharing music that connects deeply with people’s hearts. This concert is the beginning of a journey I hope to share with audiences in years to come. The title “If I Can Dream” actually comes from a very powerful and specific inspiration, which will only be revealed at the show  - so you better make sure you are there to find out! 

2.      How would you describe the musical direction and mood of this concert?
“Shanelle in Concert” presents a beautifully crafted musical journey that blends heartfelt storytelling, and vocal artistry. I will be singing a collection of songs that I’ve intentionally selected, spanning various musical geners including Jazz, Gospel, Broadway, Pop and much more. The concert carries an atmosphere of hope, warmth, and emotional honesty, inviting the audience to reflect, connect, and dream alongside the performer. It balances gentle intimate moments with powerful cinematic heights, creating an experience that feels both personal and inspiring.

3.      Is there one song in the setlist that feels especially personal to you—and why?

All the songs I’ve chosen carry a special connection to me in different capacities, but there is One song that stands out.  The song is called Nothing Else and will be done in a very different style to the original. It happens to be the shortest song in my line-up, yet, means a great deal to me because it brings me back to the heart of why I sing in the first place. It is a reminder to strip away pressure, expectations, and noise, and return to a place of pure honesty and surrender. When I sing it, I’m not performing — I’m reconnecting with my faith, my purpose, and the deeper meaning behind every note I offer. 
 

4.      What kind of experience do you want the audience to walk away with at the end of the night?
Musically and emotionally, I want the audience to feel that they were taken on a journey—one that moved through moments of vulnerability, joy, strength, and renewal. If even one song stays with them, comforts them, or sparks something within them, then the purpose of this concert is fulfilled.  

5.      Looking back at your years in music, what’s one lesson the stage has taught you?
The stage has taught me that perfection isn’t what moves people. Presence does.  One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned from performing is the power of  learning to trust myself. It has also reminded me that every performance is a chance to grow—musically, spiritually, and personally. The stage keeps teaching me to trust my voice, trust my purpose, and trust that the music will reach the people it’s meant to reach.

6.      How has your approach to performing evolved over time?
When I first started my career, over 25 years ago, I was very focused on “getting everything right”—the notes, the choreography, the image, the stage movement, even down to pleasing event producer’s expectations and standards of performance, etc.. Now, it’s become less about impressing and more about expressing — Singing should always remain a joy as much as a skill, which is one reason why I love Adele so much as an artiste. Today, I approach the stage with a greater sense of intention, authenticity, and emotional connection. I’ve learned to trust my voice more, trust my preparation, and allow myself to be present in the moment instead of trying to control every detail. 

7.      What has kept your passion for music alive through the years?
Over the years, it has been incredibly rewarding to guide others in discovering their own voices, and that, in turn, continually reignites my own love for singing and keeps me current – both technically and musically. For the past 15 years, I’ve had the privilege of being a Vocal Coach and mentor to countless people of all ages through my private training school,  Elle’s Studio. Watching my students grow, find confidence, and express themselves through song has given me great joy and fulfilment. Each student’s journey teaches me something new, keeps me inspired, and challenges me to continually improve as a musician and teacher.

8.      How do you view today’s performers and the energy they bring to the industry?

Overall, I feel optimistic about the Sri Lankan music scene. The energy, innovation, and dedication of today’s performers are breathing new life into the industry, and it’s exciting to witness this growth firsthand as both an artist and a vocal coach. Performer’s in Sri Lanka as incredibly passionate, creative, and resilient. Ma ny young artists are experimenting with new sounds, blending genres, and bringing fresh energy to the local music scene. There’s a real sense of drive and ambition, and it’s inspiring to see so many striving to elevate their craft despite the challenges of a smaller industry.  At the same time, I think there’s an opportunity for artists to focus a bit more on stage presence, vocal technique, and authentic storytelling.

9.      What do you think sets a true live performer apart in this digital age?
Today, it’s easier than ever to create music digitally, with auto-tune, loops, and editing software, anyone can produce a “perfect” track without necessarily having mastery of their voice or instrument. While technology has its place, it can sometimes strip music of its soul and authencity.  On stage, every note, every breath, and every moment is real. Mistakes may happen, but that imperfection is what makes it genuine and moving. It’s the difference between hearing a polished recording and feeling music touch your heart in real time.  A live performer breathes life into music.  They remind the audience that the power of music comes from emotion, presence, and connection — not just digital perfection.

10.     If you could give one piece of advice to young Sri Lankan vocalists stepping on stage, what would it be?

Step on stage with confidence, believe in your voice, but more importantly, believe in the story you’re telling. When you sing from the heart, the audience will feel it —technical skill alone, though important,  cannot create that connection. Let your authenticity guide your vocal output, your improvisations, your energy… People connect to how you feel, not just how you sound!

11.     Is there a Sri Lankan artist you’d love to perform alongside someday?

I’ve been incredibly fortunate to share the stage with so many amazing Sri Lankan singers over the years, which has been both inspiring and humbling. Some of my most memorable experiences include performing with the outstanding Maxi Rozairo for Miss World 1996, when she visited our country.  I’ve also had the joy of singing with Manilal Perera, whose energy on stage is absolutely infectious, and  a special collaboration with the unique husky voice of Dumi Fernando,  at my sister’s wedding. 

12.     If you could dream big—locally or internationally—what’s a stage or moment you’d love to be part of in the future?

Most of my favorite artists, like Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin, and Natalie Cole, are no longer with us, but their music continues to inspire me. Though I’m a huge fan of Adele, one of my biggest dreams has always been to record a Gospel album, sharing messages of faith, hope, and love through music.In line with that dream, performing alongside CeCe Winans would be a truly glorious moment. I deeply admire her not only as a vocal powerhouse,  but also as a strong woman of faith whose personality and music inspire millions. 
 

How to get tickets?
 
Tickets are directly available at the Galle Face Hotel Concierge. Additionally, for more information on how to obtain tickets, people may contact the following number – 0773 116 542 and can purchase tickets through bank transfer, which can then be collected at the ticket table, when they come for the show.  For more updates please follow  our page “Shanelle in concert” on Facebook and Instagram.