UNITED KINGDOM, October 6, 2006: The United Kingdom is graced for 13 weeks with the presence of the Kala Chethena Kathakali Company performing at 45 locations this fall from September 14 to December 3, 2006. The news release explains the art form and the history behind the company, “Kathakali is a spellbinding and beautiful art form originating in the temples of Kerala in South West India over 500 years ago. It embraces drama, dance, music, visual arts and ritual to create one of the world’s most visually exciting forms of theatre. Brilliant costumes and make up transform the actors into Gods, Kings, Devils and Princesses to tell their story through the exotic world of theatre. Originally from Rochdale, Kalamandalam Barbara Vijayakumar discovered Kathakali whilst travelling across India. After training at Rochdale College of Art, Winchester School of Art and the Kerala Kalamandalam south India with the world’s foremost Kathakali chutti (make-up) artist, she founded the Kala Chethena Kathakali Company with internationally renowned Kathakali actor, and her husband, Kalamandalam Vijayakumar. Comprised of eminent artists from India, equivalent to the Royal Shakespeare Company or the Royal Ballet Company, many of the artists have more than 30 years experience.” If you are interested in attending a performance at one of the 45 venues, check out the URL under source for dates and locations.
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