Thai Dance-Drama
Traditional theatre is still the most recognised performing-arts genre in Thailand, and comprises six main forms: khon, lakhon, likay, manohra, lakhon lek and nang. Both dance and drama are inextricably linked in traditional Thai theatre. In effect, the actor is a mime, with the storyline and lyrics provided by a singer and chorus to the side of the stage. A traditional phipat orchestra creates not only the atmosphere, but also an emotive force.