Koodiyattom

Koodiyattom

Oldest art form Koodiyattom,(literally,dancing together) is the Sanskrit Theater of Kerala which is believed to have originated two millennia ago.The plays are in Sanskrit with the Chakyars performing male roles and the nangiars(Woman of the Nambiar community)performing the female roles.The vidushaka  or clown recites the malayalam translation for the benefit of the audience.Manipravalam,a mixture of Sanskrit and Malayalam langage owes its origin to Koodiyattom.

The performance

The performance of Koodiyattom was codified in ancient times through elaborate stage manuals called Attaprakarams and Kramadeepikas.The theatric action is based on these choreographic texts which contain all the logistic,organizational and theatric aspects of Koodiyattom.

ThePlays

 The plays in Koodiyattom have minimal text giving room for the actor to improvise and elaborate imaginatively.Single acts from Sankrit plays are chosen.The actor has the freedom to creatively interpret the role in a play.Theatre improvisation is effected through several methods including the use of orchestra to enhance historic action and the deliberate amplification of events and sequences through a technique called Pakarnnattam.

Conveying  a whole range of emotions

Abhinaya(expression)through angika(movements of the body),vahika(spoken word),aharya(make-up and costume)as well as satvika(creation and projection of moods and sentiments)are conspicuous in Koodiyattom.Make-p pattern costumes of Koodiyattom are believed to be the forerunners of Kathakali costume.