Kathakali

One of the four main Indian dance styles (others are Bharat Natyam, Kathak, and Manipuri). It is an integration of drama, singing, and instrumental music, characterized by a range of highly stylized gestures. It originated in the extreme south of India and reached its artistic peak during the 17th century. The stories are derived from Hindu mythology and each individual character is represented by a different coloured mask or make-up. It is performed in a temple or public square after dusk, with performances sometimes lasting the entire night.