Kudiyattam Theatre and the Actor's Consciousness

This book explores the training methods, performance and aesthetics of Kudiyattam, the oldest existing theatre from in the world. It brings together for the first time a comprehensive analysis of the psycho-physical techniques employed by the actors in Kerala of this temple theatre form. The book offers an in-depth analysis of pakarnnattam, a unique acting technique that helps the actor to perform multiple characters in a single dramatic situation. This multiple transformational acting technique is highly relevant to enhance the actor’s abilities such as imagination, spontaneity and improvisation. The book employs a range of theoretical models developed from performance studies, gender theories, consciousness studies, Indian aesthetic and philosophical theories to investigate the actor’s body in training and performance. Most significantly, for the first time, the book offers some extra-ordinary insights into the links between the actor’s breathing and consciousness. It covers a range of topics: Hatha Yoga breathing techniques, eye training, hand gestures, movement techniques, voice training and rasa acting.