Ancient Thai Dance Drama for Modern Times

Known as the crown jewel of Thai performing arts, Khon has journeyed through the centuries, continuously preserving and passing its legacy to younger generations and beyond.

Experience a modern-day Khon performance at Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre, where this age-old art form’s legacy is being integrated seamlessly into the digital age, and preserved.

INTRODUCTION TO KHON

Khon is one of Thailand’s earliest performing arts, with its origin tracing back to the Ayutthaya Period (1350-1767). In 2018, UNESCO recognized this classical dance drama as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, making Khon the first Thai cultural practice to receive such a distinction.

The allure of Khon lies in its captivating retelling of the story of Phra Ram from the “Ramakien” (Thailand’s adaptation of the Indian “Ramayana”) performed through an exquisite fusion of Thai arts. It includes singing, voice acting, fine arts, music, classical dance, and the intricate craftsmanship involved in creating costumes, accessories, and masks, all of which require creativity and artisanal skills with attention to detail.

KHON AT SALA CHALERMKRUNG

For those seeking an immersive experience of Khon, the Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre offers an exceptional opportunity. At this historic venue, inaugurated in 1933 as a cinema and theatre funded by King Prajadhipok (King Rama VII), modern-day Khon performances titled “Hanuman” are hosted from Monday to Friday, relating the journey of Phra Ram’s heroic monkey warrior from his origin to his battle with demon king Thotsakan.

Note that the Khon presented at this theater has undergone a transformation for modern times. What was once a lengthy two-to-three-hour spectacle is now condensed into a 25-minute performance integrated with digital technology and innovative stagecraft. Enhanced by subtitles in English and Chinese, 3D mapping, holograms, and various visual effects, the Khon has a narrative that can be easily followed, making the art form accessible to a global audience.

“Khon has always enjoyed the patronage of the Thai monarchy,” said Narumol Lomtong, Managing Director of United Cinema Ltd. which manages Sala Chalermkrung. “Since 2018, His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun (Rama X) and Her Majesty Queen Suthida have graciously granted us the opportunity to present Khon performances for the public, especially tourists, at Sala Chalermkrung as a way to preserve and promote this revered art form.”

“While the traditional-style performance has been shortened, the essence of Khon remains intact,” continued Narumol, who has been involved on the Khon scene for over 30 years. “The theatre offers three matinee performances daily, with each show accommodating up to 600 guests. On average 1,500 to 1,800 Thai and international visitors attend each day, which reflects the growing appeal of this cultural treasure.”

A NEW GENERATION OF KHON PERFORMERS

Another encouraging trend is the increasing level of interest among young Thais to become professional Khon performers. This shift is evident at Sala Chalermkrung, where the number of aspiring performers continues to rise.

“We were once concerned about a lack of successors in the art form. Learning and practicing Khon require immense discipline and dedication — even mastery of the basic postures, such as standing in character, requires over 2,000 hours of practice. Also, success depends not only on one’s passion but also on having a stable financial position during one’s career,” Narumol explained. “However, we now have professional performers who earn a stable income at Sala Chalermkrung thanks to our steady stream of performances and growing public interest.”

Thanchanok “Ram” Ounbangluang, 24, who takes on monkey roles, and Nattanicha “Ai” Boonkantinat, 22, who takes on female characters, are exemplary examples of the new generation. Both began their Khon training as children, drawn in by the dance movements, and since then pursued it seriously as their chosen careers.

“Each time I got to perform on stage the joy inspired me to train and develop further, and finally I was able to make Khon my profession. In addition to being proud to be a Khon performer, I’m also proud to have a part in preserving Thai classical dance,” said Nattanicha.

Thanchanok commented, “Khon was something I was always good at, and I decided to continue my studies for university level at Bunditpatanasilpa Institute of Fine Arts because it also supports performances. For me, aside from the pride of being a Khon dancer, I feel I’m doing what I love and able to promote Thai arts and culture.” He added, “Khon is my passion, and I’m proud to share our rich heritage while also being good enough at it to make a living.”

The evolution of Khon at Sala Chalermkrung exemplifies how traditional arts can adapt to a contemporary context without losing their essence. By embracing modern technologies and fostering a new generation of talented performers, Khon remains a vibrant art form on Thailand’s cultural landscape, ensuring its continuity for years to come.

Tickets

Tickets for a Khon performance at Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre are priced at 400 Baht for international visitors. Those who purchase a ticket to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and the Grand Palace (500 Baht) will receive a complimentary Khon ticket for any available performance at Sala Chalermkrung within seven days of purchase. Shows take place Monday-Friday at 13:00, 14:30 and 16:00. A shuttle service is available at Wiman Thewet Gate, the designated exit of the Grand Palace.

Location

Sala Chalermkrung Royal Theatre
66 Sala Chalermkrung, Charoenkrung Road, Bangkok
Tel: +66 (0)2 224 4499
Website: salachalermkrung.com

Discover the sophistication of the ancient Thai dance in the modern times. Fly to Bangkok with Thai Airways!