• Local flavor from food to handicrafts
Local Culture and Traditions
Manora or Nora is southern Thailand's native cultural performance. Phatthalung is regarded as the birthplace of Nora. It is surmised that Nora influence spread over from South India together with Lakhon Chatri (another type of performance), but the dance postures were adapted to the liking of the people in each region. The Nora performance hall has a raised stage similar to that of a Likae show. A band and vocals sit in front of the stage. The dancers wear close-fitting trunks and a long sash, with cloths draping the torso like a tail. In addition, the dancers wear a sash of gold and diamonds, an embroidered neck brace and long nails. The Nora has 12 main postures that are all lovely. The dancers also sing ad lib or according to verses that are memorized. The Phatthalung College of Dramatic Arts has preserved this important art form. Several local troupes also put on shows in the province.