The UK national tour of Kathakali, the classical dance-drama of Kerala, commenced on 20 September 2024 in Wolverhampton, and has since received overwhelmingly positive reviews. The tour showcases the unique blend of intricate storytelling, expressive facial gestures, and vibrant costumes that define Kathakali, captivating audiences across multiple locations in the UK. This is the largest Kathakali tour ever held in the UK outside of India, made possible through the tireless efforts of Southampton based Kalamandalam Barbara Vijayakumar and her husband, Kalamandalam Vijayakumar.
Castle Cary (Somerset) Show: A Sold-Out Success On 21 September 2024, the tour reached Somerset, where a sold-out performance took place in the village of Castle Cary. Geoff and Elizabeth Corris, long-time enthusiasts of Indian performing arts, hailed the event as the best Kathakali performance they had ever witnessed, even comparing it to their past experiences in India. They commended the Kala Chethena Company for the emotional depth, dramatic makeup, and stunning costumes that made the evening truly unforgettable.
“We now appreciate how the performing arts of Kerala have evolved from sacred Hindu temple culture,” they noted. “The elaborate miming gestures and facial contortions, along with the actors’ ability to convey the story, made for a unique and powerful experience.”
Aberystwyth Arts (Wales) Centre: Standing Ovation Another standout event was held on 24 September 2024 at Aberystwyth Arts Centre in Wales, where the performance left the audience in awe. A standing ovation followed the show, with spectators praising the high quality and emotional intensity of the performance. A letter from a Malayalee audience member, Aswathy (Ash), expressed deep gratitude for the chance to reconnect with the cultural heritage of Kerala.
The program included an interactive session, which was highly appreciated, as Barbara Vijayakumar explained the detailed makeup process and the significance of the heavy headpieces worn by the artists. This enlightening demonstration added another layer to the audience’s understanding of the art form.
North Curry, Somerset: A Young Audience Member’s Poetic Tribute In North Curry, Somerset, on a subsequent night, the tour continued to charm audiences. An 8-year-old boy, initially reluctant to attend, was so moved by the experience that he penned a poem about the evening. His charming verses captured the essence of the evening, describing the enchanting music, colorful costumes, and bold expressions of the performers. “We were treated to an evening of delight,” his poem reads, “with a different version of the story of Snow White.”
Wells (Somerset) Show: Emotional Impact The performance on 29 September at Wells, Somerset, also left a lasting impression. A comment from an audience member named Caroline described the show as “so emotional,” and highlighted the actors’ connection and drama, which was heightened by the absence of musicians and scenery. Caroline, deeply moved by the performance, expressed her desire to attend the final show of the tour.
Upcoming Shows: The Kathakali tour continues with performances scheduled at Exeter Phoenix on 3 October, followed by Salford Hall in Bristol on 5 October. As the tour progresses, it is clear that the age-old art form of Kathakali continues to resonate deeply with audiences far beyond its cultural roots in Kerala.
To book tickets for the forthcoming events, visit: https://www.kathakali.net/whats-on/event-dates
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