THERE’S an earthy appeal about a theru koothu performance, which can only be felt amid nature. For this reason, VR Devika of the Aseema Trust chose the Kattaikkuttu Sangam in Punjarasantangal Village — an institute nestled away from main town Kanchipuram.
Vanniar Natakam, a therukoothu performance by the Kalai Tholkalaiyiyal Mempattu Maiyyam, Salem, was held in the breezy open air space at the institute.
Even before the scheduled time, little village boys rushed in to take their place on the mat placed below the low pedestal. They were soon joined by the older village folk, who huddled together ina bed sheet to protect them from mosquitoes, and got prepared for a long night.
The candid set up and presentation, spontaneity and brilliant energy levels by the actors brought out the essence of therukoothu in all its authenticity.
The show, which goes on till March 21, was performed as a part of the weeklong Natya Parampara Festival of Theru Koothu in Tamil Nadu, presented by the Sangeet Natak Akedemi, New Delhi