Kathakali – a breath-taking blend of theatre, dance, drama, stunning costumes, beautiful makeup and storytelling – is coming to Quay Arts
The Kala Chethena Kathakali Company, from Kerala, South India, will bring the ancient art of Kathakali to Newport, on 24th and 25th March
Kathakali is the classical dance drama of Kerala, south India and combines storytelling, dance, drama, ritual, vibrant costumes, and an intricate makeup, featured in the Guinness Book of Records as the most 3 dimensional make up in the world.
The art of Kathakali will be presented by world-class Kathakali experts, who have undergone years of intense training and have performed internationally for decades. The tour focuses on making Kathakali as accessible and enjoyable to as many people as possible including children, families, and students, both from Asian and non-Asian communities.
The performance offers a rare opportunity to see Kathakali in this country, view the makeup, see the costumes, and meet the artists.
Before the performance starts a demonstration will illustrate how a Kathakali actor tells a story through emotions, facial expressions, characters, and gestures. A short film will take the audience back in time when Kathakali first emerged 600 years ago.
The performance that follows highlights the need for women and girls to be respected and to feel safe.
In addition to the performance, there is an opportunity to learn more about Kathakali through a drama-based workshop led by a top artist from Kerala.
The Stage wrote:
“It is impossible not to find the performance colourful, entertaining and fascinating. The dancers’ impressive skill, rooted in years of discipline, remind us of the glory of non-European drama.”
The Daily Telegraph has written: “They perform with amazing grace, intensity and dignity. Intense, hypnotic and spectacularly beautiful.”
Shiomi Pinto, Extradition Magazine, has said:
“For one night…actors, dancer, musicians and the audience slipped through the magic of possession into the theatre of the gods.”
For further information about the performances, plus more about the company and the ancient art of Kathakali may be found here.
