Thai Khon Mask

KHON
Classical dance drama

Khon is the most stylised form of Thai dance. It is performed by troupes of non-speaking dancers, the story being told by a chorus at the side of the stage. Choreography follows traditional models rather than attempting to innovate. Most khon performances feature episodes from the Ramakien. Costumes are dictated by tradition, with demons wearing coloured masks.

Khon Masks - A National Art of Thailand. Over hundred years, the epic knows in Thai as the Ramakien has been adapted from Thai culture and traditions. Most visitors to Thailand have the opportunity to experience traditional performing arts, music, theatre and dance. Perhaps the most spectacular of these are the masks. Each Khon Mask, whether that of the demon king Thotsakan or one of many Khon characters, are made by hand. The first stage involves the molding of clay for the characters of Khon Masked Drama, the process is then followed plaster mold being made from the clay mold to produce the mask. For the best masks a special tissue thin paper is used (hand-made from the "sa" tree) up to 20 layers of "sa" paper are glued on the form, then the surface is dried. The mask is then cut carefully away from the form, the two halves being rejoined by sewing with fine wire. These stitches are covered by further layers of "sa" paper and left until thoroughly dry. The black sap of the "rak" tree is used to form relief features such as eyebrows, eyes, mouth and the elaborate headdresses. Another layer of "sa" paper is applied and the face is finally sandpapered. The eyes, teeth and fangs are fashioned from pearl shell. The ears are made by leather. Highlighting lines using 24-karat gold leafs and semi precious gems are then used to color the mask. The making of Khon Mask Demands high artistic skills and delicate craftmanship. Khon Mask is one of the types of Thai Art that deserves earnest preservation. Our products are souvenirs for the leaders of APEC CEO Summit 2003

Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre

On the auspicious occasion of the 60th anniversary of H.M. King Bhumibol’s accession to the throne in 2006, Sala Chalermkrung Foundation, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, and the Crown Property Bureau jointly organized “Sala Chalermkrung Khon Project” to follow the King’s footsteps in preserving Thai heritage and sharing it with the rest of the world. Khon or Thai Classical Masked Dance Drama is the acme of Thai dramatic arts, which usually draws its stories from the Indian epic Ramayana.

In 1932, Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre was ordered to be constructed by King Rama VII as a memorable gift to the Thais on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the founding of Bangkok. The official opening was on Sunday 2 July 1933 when the first talking movie was first shown in Thailand.

Apart from being Southeast Asia’s first air-conditioned cinema, Sala Chalermkrung, has been serving as a national venue for exhibiting breathtaking performances and exhibitions to maintain the authenticity of Thai arts and culture for more than 70 years. And now it is proud to present Thailand’s exquisite masked dance drama to foreign visitors. English subtitles are available on screen above the stage and the explanatory notes of the movements and masks are displayed on film prior to the showtime.

Show times : Every Friday/Saturday at 7.30 p.m.
Ticket prices : 1,000 and 1,200 Baht
http://www.salachalermkrung.com/