Neo-Classical Dances

The neo-classical dance of Kerala represents a delicate fusion of the folk and classical traditions of Kerala dances. The neo- Classic dances thus retain not only the essential flavours of the folk and classical traditions but project distinctive individuality of their own.
 
Meenakshi Natakom & Kamsanatakom:

Meenakshi Natakom & Kamsanatakom are two folk dance dramas, which are still in vogue in some parts of Palakkad district. Both dance forms have the confluence of the characteristics of Mohiniyattam and Kathkali. 

The lasya of Mohiniyattam and the Thandava of Kathkali are well mixed in the dance sequence of Meenakshiyattom. Even the elakiyattom of Kathkali, male characters have to be done by Meenakshi in Meenakshiyattom. The songs are a mixture of Tamil and Malayalam. The make-up and costumes bear considerable resemblance to Kathkali. The characters are all allowed to speak.

 Chavittu Natakom:

The Portuguese influence in kerala helped the spread of Christianity along the south west coast. As a result, a new type of community was slowly brought into existence, which being cut off from its original set-up, had to look upon the Westerner for cultural sustenance. Out of this situation was born a new art form with songs, dialogues and dances, similar to the miracle plays of the West. They are known as Chavittu Natakom. 

The stage settings, introduction of curtains costumes, masks, etc, show the influence of the West.