Experience a celebrated master of one of the oldest living theatre traditions, telling famed Tamil stories with a modern twist. Trained since the age of 7, dancer and actor Kapila Venu is a leading performer of Koodiyattam, a UNESCO-recognised ritual artform more than 2000 years old.

Shaiva Koothu is a vibrant and expressive dance-drama associated with the 6th century Tamil saint Thiru Karaikkal Ammaiyar – a remarkable female poet and devotee of Lord Shiva. The songs, sung in Tamil, beautifully convey her spiritual experiences, her love for Shiva and her journey towards enlightenment.

This is the first time in the history of Koodiyattam this story has been adapted.

TICKETS ON SALE 22 OCTOBER 2026

Sydney Festival 2027 co-presented with Powerhouse.