A breath-taking blend of theatre, dance, drama, stunning costumes, beautiful makeup and storytelling.

Kathakali, the classical dance drama of Kerala south India, makes a welcome return to this country to perform a story that highlights the dignity, strength, and compassion of women.

The Kala Chethena Kathakali Company, involve outstanding international artists from Kerala, and bring emotion, colour, and incredible characters onto the stage.

The company have toured extensively in the UK and world-wide bringing Kathakali to thousands of people. For anyone unfamiliar with Kathakali there is a chance to see the makeup being applied, view the costumes, meet the artists and a short pre-show demonstration.

Allow your imagination to enter the magical world of Kathakali and find a place where stories come alive.

Before the performance starts a demonstration will illustrate how a Kathakali actor tells a story through emotions, facial expressions, characters, and gestures. A short film will take the audience back in time when Kathakali first emerged 600 years ago.

The performance that follows highlights the need for women and girls to be respected and to feel safe.

WORKSHOP

In addition to the performance there is an opportunity to learn more about Kathakali through a FREE drama-based workshop led by a top artist from Kerala.

This will take place 3pm – 4pm on the day of the performance.

A maximum of 20 places available. Ticket holders can contact the box office for their place.

“They perform with amazing grace, intensity and dignity.  Intense, hypnotic and spectacularly beautiful’
The Daily Telegraph

ABOUT THE KALA CHETHENA KATHAKALI COMPANY

The Kala Chethena Kathakali Company brought Kathakali to this country in 1987 and made a base in Southampton. From this multi-cultural city the company has taken Kathakali throughout the UK bringing its rich and ancient culture to thousands of people of all ages, cultural backgrounds and abilities. They strive to make the ancient art of Kathakali as accessible as possible and are delighted to be bringing Kathakali to the people of this country again.

VENUE: EXETER PHOENIX

*Subject to a £1.50 ticketing system charge. We don’t charge this to make a profit. Find out more >>