Artspree,UALR’s performing arts series, opens its 2009-2010 season with “Kathakali,” an Indian dance drama by Viswanath Kaladharan and Kalamandalam Shanmukhan showcasing India’s highly stylized classical dance and drama.

The performance will be at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 28, in the Stella Boyle Concert Hall of the UALR Fine Arts Building. Tickets are $20 for the main floor, $17 for the balcony, $10 for non-UALR students, and free for UALR students. Group discounts are available. For more information, call 501-569-3288.

The art form Kathakali combines dancing, acting, vocal music, percussion and costumes in one art form dating back to 17th century India. Kaladharan and Shanmukhan will be presenting selected scenes from prominent Kathakali plays.

During the performance, Kaladharan will explain the story and context before each scene is performed by Shanmukhan. There will be a question and answer session about the onstage craft and aesthetics following the performance.