The entire Yakshagana performance rests on foot work, body movements, gestures and facial expressions. The rhythmic movements are the yardstick to feel the pulse of Yakshagana. Devoid of gentle movements, the dancing pattern in Yakshagana consists of squatting and jumping requiring quick body movements. During the battle sequences, the tempo of the dance is swift and intense and the pattern varies from one character to another. The performers donning a heavy costume jump high in the air and reel vigorously without losing physical balance and rhythm. The dancing spectacle of demon characters like 'Athikaya', 'Indrajithu' or 'Shurpanakhi' is breath-taking. The gestures, movements and footwork visually aid the comprehension of play. It is delightful to observe that no artiste over steps his role by resorting to long speeches. He performs with utmost dignity befitting the role.

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Costume and Make-up

The splendour of Yakshagana lies with the unusual costumes and make-up of the artistes. The smooth flow of heavy and gorgeous costumes testify to the stimulating power of this audiovisual medium.

The facial make up varies from simple to intricate designs depending upon the roles they play. Motif on the face varies for hero, demon and female characters. Demonical make-up is heavy with artificial eyelids and white dots are liberally applied to portray the ferocious and violent nature of the demons.

The traditional costume consists of a dhoti, a pyjama, a jacket and a loose gown. Depending upon the characters, they increase the girth of the body with sheets of colorful cloth and sarees tied around. In Yakshagana, it is customary for males to perform even the role of females.

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Ornaments

Ornaments consists of 'Bhujakeerthi' worn for the elbow and looks like colourful shining wings. Its surface is plain in 'Mudalapaya' and it is rough, thorn-like in Paduvalapaya. Besides the heavy armlets and anklets, intricately designed 'Edehara' (chest ornament made of wood and pasted with paper and glass pieces) and 'Veeragase' (a piece of designed ornament tied around and flowing beneath the waist) are the other ornaments worn by the artistes.

Headgears

Headgears have a wide array of crowns. The selection of the headgear commensurate with the role represented by the artistes. The less important characters wear simple turbans of cloth. 'Mundasu' is a heavily set headgear, which gives a rich look to the character. It is broader in the middle which tapers as it proceeds upwards and appears like a lotus leaf. Since the Mundasu is heavy, it requires talent and prowess to wear it and dance.