MYANMAR
Just as today all types of Burmese plays are accompanied by the traditional Burmese orchestra, the beginnings of Burmese theatre contained a music that, like the theatre, was probably based on ancient religious rituals. Before Indian and Chinese musical influences, the inspirational source of Burmese music and dance was the miracle plays (nibhatkhin), which, in turn, were based on singing, dancing, and entertainment in local folk feasts that date back to antiquity. The worship of spirits (nats) at Chinese festivals was accompanied by women who, through song and dance, communicated with and were possessed by these spirits. Following this practice, professional entertainers taking the place of women danced, sang, and played instruments during the first nibhatkhin. These practices led to the dancing and singing associated with the pwe, a popular play for public and courtly entertainment.