Learn about the creation and performance of traditional Kerala shadow puppetry from South India in this workshop intensive. Led by Kerala puppet master Ramachandra Pulavar and his son Rahul Koonathara, the step-by-step workshop will include an introduction to Tholpavakoothu shadow puppetry of Kerala, the design and creation of participants’ own puppet characters, and instruction on shadow puppet performance, concluding with a sharing of short performances by workshop participants. Tholpava Koothu, the unique shadow puppet theatre form of Kerala, South India, is preserved as a family tradition by the Pulavars. It is an ancient peculiar ritualistic art form dedicated to Bhagavati, worshiped by the people of Kerala as the Mother Goddess. Thol Pavakoothu puppets are made of deer hide, puppets are coloured in different colors. The figures are drawn on the skin, cut out and embellished with dots, lines and holes. The arms of the puppets are provided with movable joints. The expression on the faces of the puppets, we notice close resemblances between them and the figures in natural color paintings. We also teach puppet making and its manipulation techniques.
This workshop will include a short 30-minute lecture, puppet making, a performance with the puppets the group made, and then everyone could take their puppets home. A tentative schedule includes:
9:45AM: check-in
10AM-noon: introduction and puppet making
noon-1PM: lunch on your own, not provided
1PM-3PM: Puppet making and performances
The workshop fee is $25 per adult and $15 per kid (12 and under). Space is very limited, so advance registration is required. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Please note that sharp tools will be used.