Khon troupe dazzles at Sydney Opera House
A TROUPE of 56 Khon mask dancers last night performed at the Sydney Opera House, two years after gaining international fame at London’s Royal Albert Hall.
The show is part of a one-week cultural trip organised by the ministries of Culture and Foreign Affairs to celebrate the 84th birthday of HM Queen Sirikit and the 65-year relationship between Thailand and Australia.
Deputy Prime Minister Tanasak Patimaprakorn is in Australia.
There is also a Queen Sirikit exhibition. The Queen has championed Khon as a high art form for more than five decades.
“By using our rich culture, we hope to strengthen relations in the fields of politics, economics and investment [between the two countries],” Thanasak said.
Sydney-based German Harald Arands said: "The show was very exciting. I have been to Bangkok before and love Thai culture.
“But I have not seen Khon before. Bringing a Khon performance to Sydney is extraordinary. It's an amazing show. The costumes and the dances are fantastic.”
