This is a passage of drumming, which is followed by Thodayam , a piece of abstract dance at the same time are invocatory in nature. Thodayam is performed by junior actors in the group with simple make-up. Next is the Melappadam , which is a musical piece where vocalists and the drummers are given opportunity to show their skill without depending on the actors. Then the story or part of the stories proposed are enacted which may last till dawn. The end of the performance is marked by a piece of pure dance called Dhanasi .
Realism is limited only to certain characters.
The acting mode of Kathakali in its totality can be better understood in terms of four fold scheme of historic representation given in Natyasastra. This involves the whole body of the actor and included an elaborate scheme of facial expression, mime, gestures, accompanied by their appropriate movements, poses and attitudes. Dance passages known as Kalasams have an important role to play in Kathakali. While sustaining as a pure dance, it is also meant to enhance the appropriate bhavas . Hand gestures is another integral part of Angika since the interpretation of the text is mainly conveyed through this.