Tuesday, July 06, 2010

The window display of Thai restaurant on Brunswick



At the front's display of Thai restaurant on Brunswick Street. They show Khon Masks which I really like it. This beautiful Khon masks comprise part of the costume of performers of the classical dance-drama of Thailand called " Mask Play " A Khon performance involves singing, dancing, acting, acrobatics, and music. The singing is accomplished by an offstage chorus which also recites the narrative and dialogues. The majority of actors are-unable to do this because of the masks they wear. Some forms of the masked-play, probably older forms, did not use singing. Stories for the drama are based exclusively on the Ramakien, the Thai version of an Indian epic. 

Traditionally, performers in the masked-play were men only; men played all the female roles. Supposedly, this had to do with the fact that the masked-play was performed inside the court exclusively. Actors must start training at an early age. The early stages of training are akin to gymnastic training. Although at times much muscular exertion is required, the dancing is still very graceful and expressive. Actors must learn the gesture language of the dance. Certain hand gestures and body movements indicate different emotions or responses. In recent times, changes have occurred and women are now playing the female parts.

And if you are interested to see the play, please click this link : Mask Play

My world

5 comments:

Jim said...

Good bit of multicultural Melbourne.

Unknown said...

i've seen a mask play when i visited Bangkok a few years ago. it was an awesome experience. the craft that goes into the making of these masks is amazing.

Carraol said...

Extraordinary masks in a great catch! Those representations are a great experience!

Glennis said...

Amazing masks, very pretty and colourful, must be heavy to dance in though.

Gemma Wiseman said...

An incredible window display! Very eye-catching!

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