To name a few of the dance/drama and other stage arts- These are Aivar Naatakam, Bhagavathipattu, Chaakyaar koothu, kaakkaarissi, naatakam, kalaripayattu, kathakali, koodiyaattam, koothamooriyaatam, krishnanaattam, kummatti, maargamkali, mohiniaattam, mudivettu, oppana, patayani, pulikali, pulluvapattu, theyyam, thirayaattam, thullal and velakali.
Kathakali
Kathakali, a highly styled dance drama is one of the major dance traditions practised in Kerala. It has its origin in ancient Sanskrit dance-drama. It is sometimes described as “one of the most magnificent theatres of imagination.” Over the years, Kathakali has undergone changes in style and presentation and has evolved into the present day form. Along the way, it has absorbed and assimilated many local rituals and traditions. Local arts such as Theyyam and Keralan martial art, Kalaripayattu have influenced kathakali. Stories from Hindu epics Ramayana and Mahabharat are enacted in Kathakali form. Kathakali’s special aspect is the emphasis given to the use of elaborate costume, ornaments and facial make up. The dancer uses his eyes very expressively to convey even the most subtle emotions. Bright expressive colours such as green (to denote good), red (evil) and white (for a deity) are used in the make-up. The dancer himself never speaks except with his hands. The text of the drama is sung for him.
Kutiyattam
Kutiyattam is another form of Sanskrit drama. This is a temple art performed by a specific community. This form of drama combines music, dance and pure spoken drama. Unlike in Kathakali, the performers speak but in a characteristic style. It is believed that this is the only continuing performance art that closely adheres to the precepts laid down in Bharata’s Natyasastra (4th century AD) the earliest available treatise on music and drama. One cycle of Kutiyattam sometimes runs to several days and even weeks.
Mohiniattam
This form of dance is also called “Dance of the Enchantress”. It emphasises the seduction and graceful aspects of movement. This is a typical Keralan dance form, not practised much outside the state. The dance is performed by solo woman in which there is a rhythmical swaying of the dancer from side to side and a smooth flow of the body. The dance is focussed on mood and emotion. The various other forms of dance and dance-dramas have the conventions, grammar and rules that have been passed on from generation to generation. These dance performances tell a vivid story of the cultural richness and originality of Kerala.
Kalam Ezhuttu
Many visitors to Kerala miss the Kalam Ezhuttu- detailed and beautiful drawings, (in coloured powder) of deities and geometric patterns. Each design spreads to nearly 30 sq.meters in open area. Rice flour, turmeric, burnt paddy husk and ground leaves are used
in making the colours. Kalams are produced by three communities in Kerala-Two of them originate from Ambalavasis, (the temple servant caste), the third from puillavar. They specialise in serpent worship. The opening of the eyes of the image, the subsequent destruction and the related rituals are worth watching. The powder from the image is considered as endowed with divine powers, and is therefore thrown on the onlookers.
