A taste of Kerala is coming to Slough with a performance of sacred theatre and storytelling.

The Kala Chethena Kathakali Company will present Kathakali at the Curve Venue on Thursday, October 24, at 7.30pm.

Kathakali is a classical dance-drama originating from Kerala, South India, with roots tracing back to temple art forms of the 17th century.

The unique performance is deeply rooted in Hinduism and showcases a blend of storytelling, dance, drama, and ritual.

The actors, transformed into different characters, including gods, kings, devils, and princesses, wear colourful costumes and elaborate makeup.

The makeup, noted in the Guinness Book of Records, is recognised as the most three-dimensional makeup in the world.

Each character narrates universal tales from Hindu epics, offering audiences an engaging cultural experience.

The Kala Chethena Kathakali Company, established in 1987, is the foremost Kathakali group outside India.

Founded by Kathakali makeup specialist Kalamandalam Barbara Vijayakumar and actor Kalamandalam Vijayakumar, the company aims to make Kathakali accessible and enjoyable for people across all ages and cultural backgrounds.

Their journey began at the renowned Kerala Kalamandalam, a centre for the study of arts and culture in Kerala.

Barbara Vijayakumar broke new ground as the world’s first female chutti makeup artist.

The evening will begin with a demonstration, illustrating how a Kathakali actor uses emotions, facial expressions, characters, and gestures to narrate a story.

A short film will also be shown, taking the audience back 600 years to when Kathakali first emerged.

The performance provides a rare opportunity to see Kathakali in this country, appreciate the artistry of the makeup, explore the costumes, and interact with the artists.

Tickets for the performance are priced at £16, with concessions available for £12.

They can be purchased from the Box Office on 01753 303035 or online at the Curve Venue's website.

This event is part of a programme by Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, in partnership with Slough Borough Council, to develop The Curve as a key cultural community hub for Slough.

The initiative is supported using public funding by Arts Council England.