Kathakali Dance-Drama: Where Gods and Demons Come to Play [Paperback]

Phillip Zarrilli (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: December 12, 1999 | ISBN-10: 041519282X | ISBN-13: 978-0415192828

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.

Editorial Reviews

Review

Zarilli has been writing about the famed South Indian dance-drama kathakali for two decades; this may be the most important work yet... His own expertise is unquestionable, his involvement extensive and intense. The list of videos available for several plays will make the book even more valuable for those who have never witnessed a kathakali performance..
–J. L. Erdman, Choice

The book will be useful for advanced undergraduate and graduate theatre students...this will be an outstanding book.
–Joan Erdman, Chicago

There is no doubt that this is a project of ample scholarly significance, one that will be welcomed by the Asian theatre community and those who look to it for a new vision.
–Kathryn Hansen

About the Author

Phillip B. Zarrilli is Professor of Theatre and Performance Studies at the University of Surrey. He is the author of The Kathakali Complex (1984) and the editor of Acting (Re)Considered (Routledge 1995).

Product Details

• Paperback: 288 pages
• Publisher: Routledge (December 12, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 041519282X
• ISBN-13: 978-0415192828
• Product Dimensions: 9.5 x 6.6 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.5 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,312,134 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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