Kattaikkuttu: A Rural Theatre Tradition in South India

Kattaikkuttu is a Tamil outdoor theatre tradition from India, explored in Hanne M. de Bruin's book, which provides an introduction to its characters, history, social status, and ritual context. It also discusses the form's transition towards an independent and professional theatre genre, its performance spaces, and recent innovations, such as the creation of new work and the Kattaikkuttu Gurukulam.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 19 October 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This groundbreaking work is the first to provide a comprehensive introduction to Kattaikkuttu, a vibrant, vocal, and physical outdoor Tamil theatre tradition from India. It delves into the theatres characteristic heroic nature, as portrayed through its principal male kattai characters, explores its historical background, social status, and ritual context, and examines the production of all-night plays.

After contextualizing Kattaikkuttu within the broader realm of performing arts in India, Hanne M. de Bruin introduces readers to various debates surrounding the form. She also offers an overview of the diverse elements that constitute a Kattaikkuttu performance. The book examines its performance spaces and the transformative changes it has undergone, including its transition towards an independent and more professional theatre genre, as well as its expansion to include different castes and women.

The book delves into the intricacies of producing all-night performances, utilizing the Mahabharata play Karna Moksam as a case study. It also explores recent developments in the Kattaikkuttu repertory, including the creation of new work and the establishment of the Kattaikkuttu Gurukulam.

Furthermore, the study takes a closer look at the role of performers in Kattaikkuttu, encompassing the training of novice artists, the performance score of actor-singers that underpin specific roles or vesams, and the seasoned performers' agency in interpreting well-known roles.

In conclusion, this comprehensive work offers a deep understanding of Kattaikkuttu, its historical significance, and its evolving nature within the Indian performing arts landscape. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars, enthusiasts, and practitioners alike.

Weight: 244g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350236608