KOOTHU-P-PATTARAI

Koothu-P-Pattarai. A theatre group with a serious intentions. Not just for entertainment, but also for promoting folk art and propagating social messages. Founded in 1977, by a group of writers, artists and theatre personalities, Koothu-P-Pattarai has grown in stature and is now recognised as a pioneer on the Tamil theatre scene.

It is an innovation in many senses. With 14 full-time actors and workshops conducted constantly, this group is, in many ways, responsible for the development of Tamil Theatre. Koothu-P-Pattarai uses traditional street theatre techniques and other folk influences to create an original and refreshing idiom, which it calls Total Theatre (since all aspects, like song and dance are incorporated).

It emphasises creating a breed of actors who are able to understand the complexities of the mind. They are given all round training in the use of body and voice. Inputs include western theatre techniques, martial arts, gymnastics, traditional dance, meditation and yoga. Koothu-P-Pattarai was also responsible for the revival of the now popular percussion and dance folk form called Thappattam, which is originally from Thanjavur.

Headed by Muthuswamy, an eminent short story writer turned scriptwriter, Koothu-P-Pattarai is run by a trust that is supported by various funds. It has the distinction of being one of the two theatre groups listed in the UNESCO bursaries for artists. Its list of achievements include shows in various international festivals.

For more details conact: Koothu-P-Pattarai, Plot No: 84, Door No: 3/384, 9th Street,
Sri Venkateshwara Nagar, Kottivakam, Chennai - 100% 041.
Phone: 442 0302
E- Mail: kpp@vsnl.com
URL: www.koothu-p-pattrai.org