Kerala Kathakali Centre, Ravipuram was established in 1994 to endorse Kathakali and other traditional arts of Kerala. If one wants to see and enjoy Kathakali, traditional music and martial arts of Kerala exhibited in a professional and authentic manner, a visit to Kerala Kathakali Center is a must. Of all the other art forms Kathakali still stands out and is termed as most attractive to visitors especially foreigners who want to enjoy the real essence of Kerala.
The main agenda of the visit will be watching a one hour long show that contains an excerpt from all these above mentioned art forms. This gives a visitor a superficial idea about the south Indian art forms and if he wants to explore more he can do it based on personal preferences. Ticket charge is just INR 350 and is worth it. Visitors should check the website for show timetable or call and confirm since everyday has a different show.
The makeup for Kathakali is a humungous task and it can be done by professional only. It is an effort not just for the makeup personnel, but for the performing artists as well since he has to lay down still for at least an hour during the makeup is going on. The application of makeup is a very elaborative process and it requires great patience. Usually make up starts at 05:00 PM in the evening. Show that lasts for 2 hours will start at around 06:00 PM and ends at around 08:00 PM.
Kathakali is an art form in which facial expression has got great importance. Along with the background song, the actors will make subtle moves. They may sometime have to express long conversations with just a wink of an eye and it is very challenging. Through the mimics and gestures, the actors on stage demonstrate and explain the entire story and they remain silent throughout the entire duration of the play. These mimics and gestures are the outcome of years of practice and great control of facial muscles.
This special form of theater is an integral part of Kerala’s culture. Visiting Kerala Kathakali Center is a must-do activity once in Kerala.
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