Introduction to Thai dance

Thailand is a land of traditions and as such it still proudly maintains and nurtures its traditional culture in various forms. One such example is that of the traditional Thai dance. To the average tourist to Thailand this would be a very different experience since most of the traditional dances are based not only on classical poses and beats but also on some form of spirituality that is conducted and essayed through the dance form. The traditional Thai dance, may be broadly classified into the classical dance which is also known as (high art form) and the traditional folk dance originally known as ‘Fawn Thai’ which is known as (low art form).

History of the traditional Thai dance

Like all traditional forms of art which have been preserved since the ages but also have been majorly influenced by modern forms of the same, the traditional Thai dance is also one such feature where there is plenty of confusion regarding the true nature of the traditional Thai dance.

This confusion often stems from the fact that ‘dance drama’, which is an off shoot of the pure dance forms has been thought of as a dance form. While the classical dances are pure dance forms that use classical poses and ‘mudras’ to enchant the audience. Dance dramas on the other hand have a plot and convey through dance a form of drama or story telling.

Even though the traditional dance has been influenced by many other art forms in recent times, it used to be promoted by the royal family and survived its elegant form and poise through the years. The traditional Thai dance is seen as a link between the Gods, nature and man.

Barring the regional or folk dances of Thailand much of the Classical dance, in their themes, poses and influences have been derived from the tradition of Indian dance forms. This may be attributed to the fact that that the two nations shared the birth pangs of Buddhism, since religion has much influenced classical dance forms.

Types of traditional dance forms

khon and lakon nai, though essentially dance dramas are considered among the purest forms of Classical Thai dance. The folk form of Thai dance, Likay evolved from the fact that the ordinary man had no access to court room classical dances.

Khon is a very elegant and stylized form. Dancers use elaborate costumes and steps to convey episodes from the Ramakien, the revered Thai epic.

Lakhon dance movements are sensual, and fluid they portray a variety of emotions through their dance. The dance is mostly done in a group form.

Lakhon dance enacts stories from the Jatakas Tales, based on the incarnation of various lives of the Buddha.

Apart from these major forms of dancing the traditional Thai dance is also something that has been sub categorized and distinguished in the lines of regional dances, which in turn derive their influence from regional folk lore, harvesting, culture or celebrations. Some of these dance forms are