Krishnanattom
A
spectacle for both the scholar and the simple rustic. The visual effect is enhanced
by varied and colourful facial make-up with larger-than-life-masks, made of
light wood and cloth padding, for certain characters.
The characters who do not wear masks have specific facial colours applied within
the frame of a white chutti.
The predominant colours used are dark green, flesh tint and deep rose. Most
of the characters wear red vests and flowing 'Uthariyams'.
The characters of Krishna, Arjuna and Garuda wear dark blue vests. The traditional
performance lasts for eight days and covers the whole span of Krishna's life
from his birth to 'Swargarohanam' or ascension to the heavens.
Orchestral accompaniments are Maddalam, Ilathalam and Chengila. Krishnanattom,
though boasting of a unique choreography, assumes more the nature of a Morality
Play, seldom presuming to lay claim to the theatrical sophistry so integral
to Kathakali and Kootiyattam.
Dances in Kerala
Kathakali
|| Koothu
|| Chavittunatakom
|| Oppana ||
Valakkali
|| Mohiniyattam
|| Paana || Kolkkali
|| Thiruathirakkali
|| Tholppavakoothu
|| Krishnanattom
|| Kakkarissi
Natakom || Thullal
|| Kootiyattom
|| Duffmuttu
