Kathakali Workshop and Performance

On Friday, 08 May 2026, Year 9 GCSE Drama students had a fantastic experience when we were visited by Kalmandalam Barbara Vijayakumar (the first female make-up or 'chutti' artist) and Kalmandalam Vijayakumar (a world-renowned Kathakali actor) from the Kala Chethena Kathakali Company. They ran a workshop which enabled the students to get an insight into this traditional 500 year old Indian theatre from Kerala which has its roots in the Hindu temples and the epic Hindu stories. Students learnt how to recognise and perform using the ancient sign language of mudras which really helped to forward their understanding of this art form as well as providing a challenge to perform themselves in a way that was very different from what they are used to. The students were all respectful of the beliefs and the culture they were exploring, and showed confidence in expressing themselves using their newly acquired skills.

Later in the day, the students were joined by some Year 8 students who have opted to study Drama next year and, because of Kathakali's link to the Hindu religion, those who have opted to study REP, to watch an original solo performance which told the story of the Kashmir massacre from the point of view of a young woman whose husband was killed that day. The costume and make-up were so intricate and eye-catching, and the performance was filled with passion and a rollercoaster of emotions. We are very grateful to be able to offer our students this unique opportunity and are looking forward to welcoming the full company for a performance in November when we can bring the wonderful world of Kathakali to a wider range of students in school.