Kapila | Photo: Mathrubhumi
At the MBIFL event, Kapila, a renowned performer of Koodiyattom, is set to transport audiences back in time with an immersive residency dedicated to the ancient art form. “We are aiming at creating an immersive experience of Koothu and Koodiyattom which happen to be one of the oldest surviving theatre and storytelling traditions of the world today,” says Kapila.
With a mission to showcase the intricacies and intensity of this UNESCO-recognized Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity, Kapila has brought together a talented team of artistes, practitioners and scholars. The residency promises to be a journey through the rich history and culture of Koodiyattom, with an emphasis on both the traditional and ritual aspects of the art form, as well as the innovative transformations it has undergone in recent times.
“It is a highly sophisticated acting technique, intriguing aesthetic and symbolism, a unique system of musical accompaniment, theatre language and so on. We wish to bring in the historical traditional and ritual aspects and also take a look at the innovation and transformation that the art form has gone through in the recent past,” explains Kapila.
Audiences may expect a diverse range of practitioners, including young and up-and-coming artistes such as Sooraj Nambiar, Jishnu Prathap, and Sangeeth Chakyar, and senior practitioners such as Margi Madhu, Usha Nangiar, Kalamandalam Rajeev and Kalamandalam Narayanan Nambiar.
“Apart from them, we are deeply honored to also have the presence of Sarojini Nangiaramma who is the oldest woman ritual performer of Nangiar Koothu and has a lifetime of experience, stories and wisdom to share with us,” says Kapila. Renowned scholars Dr K. G. Paulose and Dr MV Narayanan, who have studied and written extensively about Koodiyattom for decades, will lead sessions.
The Koodiyattom residency at MBIFL promises to be a one-of-akind opportunity to delve into the depths of this ancient art form, guided by some of the greatest talents and masters in the field. Don’t miss your chance to be swept away by the beauty and complexity of Koodiyattom.