Students at Bradon Forest School, Purton, were treated to an extravaganza of dance, music and theatre with a troupe of Kathakali performers.

The troupe, which was visiting the UK from India as part of a national tour, demonstrated the male classical dance drama which originated in Kerala in South India more than 400 years ago.

Traditional characters act out ancient Indian tales with vividly painted faces, taking up to four hours to create elaborate costumes especially made by craftsmen.

The visit to Bradon Forest School last month consisted of workshops involving students of GCSE art, drama and music during the school day.

The day culminated in a spellbinding performance in the evening.

David Gibbs, head of music at the school said: "The GCSE music course involves the study of world music so that the students become familiar with identifying features in African, Asian and West Indian music.

"Consequently, the opportunity to perform Indian music will have enhanced the understanding of this culture.

"The day was certainly a worthwhile experience for both me and the students."