ON Thursday, September 21, Span Arts presents the Kala Chethena Kathakai Company, the world's foremost Kathakali company, on tour outside their native India.

Kathakali embraces drama, dance, music, visual arts and ritual to create one of the world's most visually exciting forms of theatre. Kathakali originated in the temples of Kerala over 500 years ago. Brilliant costumes and make-up transform the actors into Gods, Kings, Devils and Princesses to tell their story through the exotic world of spectacular theatre. From 5-6 pm, you can view the complicated make-up process and see the elaborate costumes. The performance starts at 7.30 pm and ends at 9.15.

Tickets are £10/£8 members, £5 children under 16, from Span Arts on (01834) 869323.