Nature and Function

1.Integration of Arts: Traditional theatre in India is a holistic art form incorporating acting, dialogue, poetry, and music.

2.Community Expression: It reflects and expresses the emotions, ethos, and communal experiences of society.

3.Musical Components: Songs and music play a crucial role in traditional theatre, serving as expressions of community feelings.

4.Linguistic Style: The language used is often creative yet informal, relying on spontaneity and the emotional intensity of everyday speech rather than classical or grammatical structures.

Cultural Context and Synthesis

1.Festive Performances: Traditional theatre is commonly performed during religious festivals, fairs, and other communal gatherings, reflecting societal attitudes and values.

2.Classical Influence: There is often a blend of folk and classical elements, with regional adaptations giving these forms a local flavour. This synthesis may have historical roots in the migration of practitioners from classical to regional settings after the decline of classical forms like Sanskrit drama.