The gift of Khon: celebrating 65 years of Australian/Thai bonds through the power of performance

The people of Sydney will soon be gifted the rare opportunity to see one of Thailand’s most beloved traditional art forms, when Thailand’s Minister of Culture, Vira Rojpojchanarat presents ‘Khon: Exquisite Masked Dance Drama of Thailand’, for two exclusive events.

Khon is a complex Thai classical dance usually performed only at royal functions, with a history dating back hundreds of years. The masked dance drama is the most refined of Thai theatre forms, requiring strict training from childhood, and combines music, martial arts, painting and elaborate costumes.

To celebrate 65 years of Australian-Thai bilateral relations, there will be a one-night, invitation-only gala performance of Khon at the Sydney Opera House and a special presentation and workshop at Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre.

The Ministry of Culture Thailand, in partnership with aMBUSH Gallery, Casula Powerhouse and Assajan Collective, is offering the public the chance to attend the in-depth and interactive demonstration and workshop for no cost. It will allow participants to explore the various performance roles, and exchange ideas with the highly skilled performers themselves.

Held at Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre on Wednesday, 30 August from 2pm, the event is free of charge, but places are strictly limited and registrations are essential.

To reserve your place at this historic event, register now at http://bit.ly/2vff0RG