Here’s a chance to be one with the cultural fabric of Kerala. The Varkala Kathakali Centre is situated near the north Cliff. It contains artefacts from Varkala’s past and often hosts traditional Kathakali dance ceremonies. Kathakali – the classical dance of Kerala and is a dance drama or a “story play” in Malayalam. Through the Kathakali classic dance stories from the Indian epics are narrated. Kathakali is a unique blend of dance, music and acting which depicts these epics. The Kathakali dancer be it male or female wears a painted face and communicates stories to music using animated expressions and mimes with hand gestures and facial expressions. Kathakali music is made up of Carnatic ragas, and traditional instruments of Kerala like the Chenda, Idakka and Shankhu, Maddalam, Chengila, Ilathalam are used in the orchestra.
At the Kathakali Center, the tourists can watch all the aspects of the art, starting from the elaborate and time-consuming make-up session. Each performance is accompanied by English commentary. Mohiniyattom another dance form of Kerala as well as the Kalaripayattu – the martial art form of Kerala are also performed here which are arranged on prior request.
During the tourist season, Kathakali performances are organised at the Varkala cultural centre every evening.
Opening Hours: shows are held from 6.30 PM to 8 PM ; Time Required: 1 – 2 hours
Entry Fees: 400 per person;Holidays: Sunday , Monday , Wednesday , Friday