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The History of Kathakali
Join us for a family-friendly drama-based workshop exploring the world behind the ancient tradition of Kathakali.
We’re delighted to host the Kala Chethena Kathakali Company at Market Hall as part of their UK Autumn tour!
Join us on Wednesday 30th October from 10:30am – 12 noon to explore the wonderous world behind the ancient tradition of Kathakali.
Learn about the history and significance of the art of Kathakali, including the incredible costumes, three-dimensional make-up, and specific, multi-hour long make-up application for each of the stunning performances.
Led by the incredible team from the Kala Chethena Kathakali Company, Kalamandalam Vijayakumar, and Kalamandalam Barbara Vijayakumar.
Kalamandalam Vijayakumar is an outstanding Kathakali actor and Co-Director of the Kala Chethena Kathakali Company. He is a highly experienced performer and an eminent teacher. Kalamandalam Vijayakumar has toured internationally since 1982 and is the principal Kathakali expert in the UK. Since 1987 he has taken Kathakali to thousands of people, living in cities, towns and rural areas.
Kalamandalam Barbara Vijayakumar is a Kathakali make-up specialist and visual artist, trained at Rochdale College of Art, Winchester School of Art and the Kerala Kalamandalam, India. Barbara is a highly experienced Kathakali make-up artists, and Co-Director of The Kala Chethena Kathakali Company. Barbara plans and structures the activities using an imaginative and creative approach to learning about Kathakali and its culture.
Both artists work together to establish a greater understanding of Kathakali, and the ancient culture from which it evolved 500 years ago.