In olden days Kathakali performance mostly took place on a temple premises or at the house of a local landlord. For a typical performance, a simple temporary pandal (canopy made of thatched roof) at a height of 101/2 feet will be erected. A minimum of 12 feet-square (144 sq. feet) is needed for the acting area. A green room will also be located close to the stage. The stage will be decorated with coconut leaves, bunches of areca nuts etc. The only source of light is a big bell metal lamp placed down the center stage. Kelikottu at about 6 `o clock in the evening will announce the performance of the evening. Kelikottu is a brief passage of drumming involving Chenda ( a cylindrical drum), Maddalam, Chengila and Elathalam. The actual performance will begin only between 9:00 - 10:00 PM. Arrangukeli will announce the beginning of the performance. 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. Recitation of Vandanaslokam (Prayer Song), followed by Purappad -- traditionally a preliminary item introducing the main character of the story in full costume and make-up. The end of the performance is marked by a piece of pure dance called Dhanasi..