Kathakali Theatre: Important Aspects

• A colourful dance-drama.

• Based on themes from Hindu mythology (the Ramayana and the Mahabharata).

• Elaborate make up code.

• A highly developed language of gesture, through which the artist can convey whole sentences and stories.

• Included five elements of "fine arts": natyam (expression), nrithyam (dance), mudras (enactment), geetha (song) and vadyam (instrumental accompaniment).

• "The training and body language were influenced by the techniques of Kalarippayattu (a martial art)".

• Ramanattam is divided into 8 sections and is performed within 8 days.

• Royal Patronage.

• Characters are classified into five groups.

• The make up is different depending on the group.

• Categorized according to their nature.

• The classifications are Pacha, Kathi, Thadi, Kari and Minukku.

• 18 additional characters who have distinct make up.

• The dancers wear large head dresses.

• Contours of the face are extended with moulded lime.

• The style of singing is called Sopaanam.

• The orchestra provides the background to the dancing and serves as a highly expressive special effects team.