Mandalam Performing Arts

Technical Requirements

Theater Spaces

Ideal performance spaces for traditional Indian art forms are theaters where the audience can see the subtle expressions of the face. Traditional proscenium stages with large orchestra pits are not ideal. If there is a large orchestra pit we recommend that it be raised to stage level so that it can be used as part of the stage. If the stage is big, the stage can be made smaller by bringing in backdrop, wings and borders. Lighting should also be focused in the center.

Lighting

Generally a bright stage and dark house are ideal. Light should be focused in the center of the stage. Light scattered on curtains and in the audience area should be avoided. A hint of yellow light often gives a warm ambience.

Sound

The following sound equipment is needed: 2 speakers 1-2 monitors 1 mike on a stand, CD deck and mixer. Podium mikes cannot be used.

Curtains and Banners

Black is the ideal color for a stage curtain. A second choice would be any dark color such as dark maroon or dark blue. A light color background is not preferable but would be acceptable. Multi-colored curtains are terrible and should be avoided. For auditoriums without curtains, the same principle applies in color choices. Some organizations like to put banners on the back of the stage. This is not recommended because the banner will disturb the visual aesthetic of the performance. We suggest banners be placed in the lobby.

Stage floors

Stage floors can be made of any hard surface. Rugged and carpeted stages should be avoided. If an auditorium has a rugged stage, please arrange to cover the stage with a hard surface. The same applies for outdoor performances on grass. Surfaces must be clean and smooth, free of splinters, nails, tacks, etc. Performers are barefoot.

A person should be given the responsibility of being MC for the performance. They will need to introduce Mandalam, speak a little about the program and introduce the artists at the end of the program.

Video Taping and Photography

Mandalam will allow video taping and photography if permission is requested in advance. Video equipment must be of the highest quality and the video person must be skilled. We would request a high quality copy of the video to be mailed to us within two weeks of the performance. Video material can only be used for archival purposes unless permission is granted for other use.

Dressing Rooms

Dressing rooms close to the stage need to be provided. Dressing rooms must have mirrors and bathrooms nearby.

Alcoholic Beverages

Alcoholic beverages should not be served to audience members, sponsors or to artists before or during the performance, i.e. in connection with dinner parties. Eating and drinking in the auditorium during a performance should also be restricted. Dinner party seating, even if there is no food served during the performance is a bad performing environment and should be avoided. Serving food after a performance or during an intermission, however, is acceptable. Because these are ritual art forms, it is necessary that a calm and focused energy be created for the audience and artists.

Ritual Oil Lamp

In most Kerala art forms, a brass oil lamp between one and two feet tall is placed in the front of the stage as part of the ritual performance. The lamp has two flames that are about 1/2 inch high. Please request permission for lighting the oil lamp. If request is denied, the lamp will not be used.

Hospitality

Food offered to artists must be vegetarian. Dairy and eggs are okay. Please provide drinking water backstage during a performance or demonstration and if possible light snacks.

Fees

Fees for performances, demonstrations and workshops must be paid on the day of the scheduled performance, at the latest.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact us at 310-592-5114 or e-mail info@mandalam.org