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Kathakali
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In such peaceful quiet atmosphere, may be in a small village or may be in the courtyard of a temple or in the center of the township, one suddenly hears the earth-shaking beating of the Kerala's 'chendai' and 'maddalam' in the evening announcing the presentation of a Kathakali performance. The villagers and the people in the surrounding areas, hearing this rhythmic sound, assemble at the place to witness and enjoy a full night Kathakali dance drama.
Earlier in the town or in the village where the Kathakali performance is to be held, the elder artists and the people get together and as per the wishes and interests of the people they
decide to enact a dance drama, may be a story from Ramayana
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or Mahabharata or 'Purana-s', selecting a suitable theme. On the spot they allot the different roles to the various dancers who have assembled there. For these professional experienced dancers there is no need for any rehearsal as they are experts in their chosen roles which they can take at a moment's notice. Some artists are famous for enacting certain characters of the epics. Thus, without any prior notice these artists decide to enact a drama with the help of singers, instrumentalists and percussionists. The artists get ready for their elaborate make-up and gorgeous costumery which take 6 to 8 hours
at least. The stage is an improvised one with 4 poles covering an area for their stage, decorated with palm leaves - mango and banana plants. The lighting is by huge oil wick lamps kept on the center of the stage. And in front, men, women and children gather to witness and enjoy a full night's Kathakali drama.
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