Kathakali is an
Indian classical dance genre that includes Bharatanatyam, Orissi, Kuchipudi,
Kathak, and Manipuri, among others.
Classical dances, like much of traditional Indian culture,
are associated with certain locations; Kathakali is largely found in Kerala.
Kathakali, unlike many other classical forms, did not evolve
in a temple context.
It emerged as a developed form in the seventeenth century,
while it has roots in centuries-old folk and religious plays.
The men's version of Kathakali is Mohini Attam, whereas the
women's form is Kathakali.
One of the most spectacular shows in Indian arts is a
Kathakali performance.
The dancers' training emphasizes controlled facial motion to
promote ease and force of expression, which contributes to the drama.
The dancers are dressed in extravagant costumes and
headdresses.
The most remarkable aspect is the intricate makeup—the
heroes' faces are painted a vibrant green with fluted ridges made of rice paste
affixed to their cheeks, while the villains' chins and foreheads are painted green
and red with pith knobs attached.
The dance goes between muscular leaps and grand spins
stylistically, with religious scriptures serving as the primary source of
storytelling.
Kathakali, like many Indian dances, has a well-developed
"vocabulary" of gestures and facial expressions that allows the
dancers to participate in elaborate storytelling.
Kathakali, like all other classical dances, has evolved
throughout the years, driven on by a shift in the venue from temple courtyards
to stage performances.
A scheduled stage performance, for example, requires a
well-organized "program" and a predetermined time constraint, while
Kathakali performances used to continue all night.
Mohan Khokar's Traditions of Indian Classical Dance,
published in 1984, has further information.
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