The Traditions of Dance, Drama and Storytelling in Laos

Dramatic art that fuses music, dance and theatre has long been the primary art form in Laos.

The "Khon" is a form of drama ballet known for its elaborate masked costumes and graceful moves with poetic lyrics from the Indian epic Ramayana.

Performances were once patronised by the King. Due to political changed in the mid 20th century the Royal Court ceased to exist and with it, the ballet company. But today dancers are training and performing again in the former Royal capital, Luang Prabang.