India Guide

Kathakali

1 Dr Devan's Kathakali See India Foundation, Kalathiparambil Cross Road, near Ernakulam railway station 0484/236 6471 Opening time: Daily 6.45–8pm (make-up at 6pm)The oldest-established tourist Kathakali show in the city, introduced by the inimitable Dr Devan, who starts the show with a lengthy discourse on Indian philosophy and mythology. Price: Rs100–150

2 Cochin Cultural Centre Soudartham, Manikath Road, Ernakulam, and KB Jacob Road, Fort Cochin 0484/235 7153 www.cochinculturalcentre.com Opening time: Daily Kathakali shows 6.30pm (make-up at 4.30pm)Award-winning company with theatres in both Fort Cochin and Ernakulam. Daily Kathakali shows start 6.30pm (make-up at 4.30pm). They also host introductory courses. Full details and booking online. Price: Rs100–150

3 Kerala Kathakali Centre opposite Brunton Boatyard, Fort Cochin 0484/221 5827 www.kathakalicentre.com Opening time: Daily Kathakali performances 6.30–8pm (make-up at 5pm); Indian classical recitals from 8.45pmPopular performances by a company of graduates of the renowned Kalamandalam Academy. You usually get to see three characters, and the music is live. One- to three-week courses are also on offer. See their website for more details. Price: Rs100–150

4 Rhythms Theatre (Greenix) opposite Fort House, Fort Cochin 0484/654 9444 www.greenix.in Opening time: Daily Kathakali performances from 6.30pmThis is the priciest show, but combines excerpts from kathakali plays with displays of mohiniyattam dance, kalarippayattu martial art and, on Sundays, theyyattam, set against a combination of live and pre-recorded music. Performances aren't of the highest standard, but the evening is more likely to appeal to kids as costumes and acts change in quick succession. Price: Rs450