Thai Classical Music and Dance

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Thai classical music originated in the era of Sukhothai, consists of three different groups of performers namely Pi Phat Sai Khruang and Mahori. Pi Phat is a tuned Percussion Ensemble which accompanies the theater performances and boxing matches Khruang Sai is the percussion and wind instruments ensemble used primarily for indoor performances. Mahori is the combination of instruments from Pi Phat and Khurang Sai. It includes three string fiddle or Sam Sai, and often accompanied by a singer.

Khon:-The unique classical masked dance Khon , requires great skill and extensive training. Introduced initially only in the royal court to prove the exclusivity of this type of dance. The scenes of traditional Khon are from the episodes of Thai literature based on Indian epic Ramayana.

Nang Yai:-Nang Yai is a shadow play   originated from the south and the puppets are made of leather with a decorative motif representing a particular stage in history. The story unfolds through song, recitation, and by moving the puppet figures.

Nang Talung: This is another version of the shadow play similar to Nang Yai but using smaller puppets. Nang Talung is accompanied by folk group of performers of oboe, drums and gongs.

Hun Lakhon Lek: The traditional Thai small puppets that are rarely seen today. The elaborate puppets and their handlers were dance together in synchronized movements and communicate the messages to the audiences in a playful manner.

Likae: The folk performance whi ch is performed at villages as community gatherings are based on uncomplicated stories. The performance is accompanied by traditional music, dance, and comedy.

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