Margi Theatre

Margi Theatre is a cultural institution in Thiruvananthapuram dedicated to preserving and promoting Kerala's classical performing arts, particularly Kathakali and Kutiyattam. Founded in 1970 by D. Appukuttan Nair, it operates from an old palatial building near East Fort. The theatre provides Gurukula-style training and hosts regular performances of traditional art forms including Kathakali, Kutiyattam, Chakyarkoothu, and Nangiarkoothu.

Visitors can experience authentic performances of Kerala's classical art forms in an atmospheric setting housed in a rambling old palace containing a temple. Performances typically start at 6 PM and feature highly skilled artists displaying intricate costumes, elaborate makeup, and expressive storytelling without spoken dialogue. The venue offers an intimate cultural experience where audiences can witness traditional dance-drama performances and may meet performers backstage after shows.

Founded in 1970 by renowned theatre enthusiast D. Appukuttan Nair, Margi has been working for over three decades to preserve Kerala's classical art forms. In 1974, it established the first Kathakali institute in Thiruvananthapuram using traditional Gurukula training methods. The Kutiyattam facility began in 1981, following rigorous Gurukula traditions. The organization made history in the 1990s when it accepted its first female students for these traditionally male-dominated art forms.

Margi Theatre is dedicated to reviving and preserving Kathakali and Kutiyattam, two UNESCO-recognized classical art forms of Kerala. It maintains the ancient Gurukula system of education where students reside with gurus to master these traditional performing arts. The organization conducts performances both within India and internationally, playing a vital role in keeping Kerala's cultural heritage alive for future generations.