Kathakali Dance-Drama: Where Gods And Demons Come To Play

Kathakali Dance-Drama: Where Gods And Demons Come To Play

Kathakali Dance-Drama provides a comprehensive introduction to the distinctive and colourful dance-drama of Kerala in South-West India for the first time. This landmark volume: * explores Kathakali's reception as it reaches new audiences both in India and the west * includes two cases of controversial of Kathakali experiments * explores the implications for Kathakali of Keralan politics During these performances heroes, heroines, gods and demons tell their stories of traditional Indian epics. The four Kathakali plays included in this anthology, translated from actual performances into English are: *The Flower of Good Fortune *The Killing of Kirmmira *The Progeny of Krishna *King Rugmamgada's Law Each play has an introduction and detailed commentary and is illustrated by stunning photographs taken during performances. An introduction to Kathakali stage conventions, make-up, music, acting, and training is also provided, making this an ideal volume for both the specialist and non-specialist reader.Review'a thoroughly well-researched book, tautly written...academically sound and yet readable. Zarrilli... manages to transfer to even the uninvolved reader some of the passion and zeal that he obviously nurtures for Kathakali.' - India Today International'Phillip B. Zarrilli's work creates a platform for the non-specialist reader and establishes a foundation for the specialist reader and performance artist.' -Vayu Naidu, NTQ, 29/06/01About the AuthorPhillip B. Zarrilli is Professor of Theatre and Performance Studies at the University of Surrey. He is the author ofThe Kathakali Complex (1984) and the editor ofActing (Re)Considered (Routledge 1995).