The Aesthetics of Sound and Space: Analyzing the Architectural and Acoustic Design of Traditional Indian Theatres

Abstract

This paper explores the intertwined concepts of sound and space in the architectural and acoustic 
design of traditional Indian theatres. By examining the historical and cultural contexts of various 
theatre forms such as Natya Shastra, Kathakali, Koodiyattam, and the use of open-air spaces in 
ancient Indian performance venues, the study identifies the critical role of acoustics in shaping 
the audience’s experience. Furthermore, the paper highlights how Indian architectural design 
incorporates both sound and space as aesthetic elements, providing a sensory experience unique 
to the Indian cultural context.