Monday, October 5, 2009
River Kwai Bridge Week
Kanchanaburi Each year in late November to early December, the world famous River Kwai Bridge built by Allied prisoners-of-war during World War II, becomes the focal point of celebrations. Event highlights include historical and archaeological exhibits, a carnival, folk and cultural performances, rides on World War II vintage trains, and a spectacular light and sound presentation re-enacting the bridge's World War II legacy. Watch the light-and-sound show in remembrance of the bridge and the construction of the Death Railway during World War II (There are 4 sets of headphones available in English, Japanese, Chinese and German). A wealth of entertainment and Exhibitions are on display.
Contact information:
Tourism Authority of Thailand, Kanchanaburi Office
Tel: +66 (0) 3451 1200, (0) 3451 2500
Fax: +66 (0) 3451 1200
E-mail: tatkan@tat.or.th
Friday, October 2, 2009
SURIN ELEPHANT ROUND-UP AND ELEPHANT SHOW
Act 1
Calling on the Gods — An Invocation Ritual
The show starts with ‘wai kru’, a solemn ritual performed as a gesture of respect to ‘grand masters’ and mentors in martial arts as well as the performing arts.
Indra, the Vedic god of the sky, clouds and monsoon and Guardian of the East, descends to earth on his mount, Erawan, a handsome elephant. National artist, Krujang Klaisritong, recites verses of poetry.
Act 2
Descent to the Human Realm
The scene opens with children in the village bonding with baby elephants. The children, dressed in traditional costume, play with the elephants.
The relationship between the career mahout and his elephant often goes back a long way to their respective childhood days. In rural communities, where elephants have been kept by a family for generations, age-old knowledge and skills in the care and control of elephants are passed down from father to son. At the same time, generations of elephants are born into the family unit. As man and elephant depend on each other, the elephant is treated as a member of the 'family'.
Young boys and baby elephants grow up together with the young boys given an opportunity to work with the family elephants, preparing them for what becomes a lifetime with one particular animal. A life-long bond is forged. The relationship is based on affection and complete trust in one individual. The elephant is very loyal to its mahout.
Act 3
Hunt for the Leader
In the wild, elephants live in herds, led by ‘cha klong’, the mighty leader of the herd.
Act 4
The Capture of Wild Elephants
In times past, the capture of wild elephants was an extremely treacherous undertaking requiring tremendous expertise. The men of the village would be away from home for months. Over 300 domesticated elephants will take part in this demonstration ancient techniques used in the capture of wild elephants. Act 4 includes a demonstration of the "Phi Pakarn" sacred ritual which is performed to ward off danger during elephant round-ups.
Surin Province is the home of the Kui, who, for centuries, have tended to and trained elephants for use throughout the country. The "Kui" tribe (or "Suay" in Thai) are thought to have migrated from Cambodia to settle largely in the northeastern provinces near the Cambodian border. Known for their expertise in capturing, domesticating and training wild elephants, the life-long relationship of the mahout with his elephant is an integral element of Kui culture, tradition and the way of life. The elephant is his companion and a family member. These handlers have great respect for their elephants.
Act 5
Celebrations: Every day life and traditions
highlights scenes from everyday life in the community and local traditions and customs including
The local culture, customs and traditions featured in this scene reflect the inseparable ties and the relationship of respect that exists between man and the elephant.
Act 6
From Forests to Domestication
provides a demonstration of techniques used in the capture of wild elephants and training techniques for elephants at work.
There has been a long history of the domestication of elephants and through the centuries, these graceful creatures have been an integral part of the Thai way of life. Considered to be an auspicious creature, the elephant's association with the three key institutions of the country — nation, religion and king, through the centuries, led to its elevation to the status of national symbol.
Regarded as the symbol of prosperity and power, and grace, befitting that of a monarch, in ancient times, elephants were used as mounts in times of war. The more elephants a king possessed, the more powerful he was perceived to be. The use of elephants in royal ceremonies and rituals still prevails today. White elephants or Chang Samkhan, symbolic of the king, are still considered to be auspicious animals and are especially prized.
Historically, elephants were principally involved in the transportation of people and goods. While there are endless accounts of legendary "war elephants" at the service of the kings of Siam, only a few of the finest elephants were trained for combat and served in the first line of attack. Most were used solely for transport.
Act 7
Elephants in Warfare
This is a presentation of the ancient art of warfare on elephant back.
Act 8
Grande Finalé and Farewell
The Surin Elephant Show closes with some 2,000 performers in full costume on stage and hundreds of elephants.
Tickets are on sale at 800 baht, 500 baht and 300 baht.
Contact information:
Tourism Authority of Thailand, Surin Office
Tel: +66 (0) 4451 4447-8, (0) 4451 8529
Fax: +66 (0) 4451 8530
E-mail: tatsurin@tat.or.th
Getting to Surin
By Car
Take Highway No. 1 (Phaholyothin Road) to Highway No. 2 (Mittraphap Road) in Sara Buri and follow Highway No. 224 through Chok Chai. Then turn left into Highway No. 214 to Surin province. The distance is 450 kms.
Alternatively, take Highway No. 1 (Phaholyothin Road) to Highway No. 2 (Mittraphap Road) in Sara Buri and follow Highway No. 226 passing through the districts Chakkarat, Huai Thalaeng, Lam Plai Mat and Buri Ram province to Surin.
The distance is 434 kms.
By Bus
Daily bus services depart from the Northeastern Bus Terminal on Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road (Morchit) in Bangkok. The trip takes approximately 6 hours.
Contact information:
Tel: (0) 2936 2852 - 66
By Rail
Daily train services depart from Hua Lamphong Railway Station.
Contact information:
State Railway of Thailand
Tel: (0) 2223 7010 or (0) 2223 7020
By Air
PB Air flies to Buriram Airport in Satuk district.
The distance from Buri Ram province to Surin province is 50 kms.
IMPORTANT
Event dates and programme details may be subject to change.
Many of the festivals and events listed on Thailand's official calendar of annual events are traditional Buddhist or folk festivals, the date of which is either determined by the Buddhist lunar calendar and waxing and waning moon. These are not staged events. The festivals reflect the rhythm of life in rural Thai villages and local traditions as observed in times past. To ensure you have the most updated information, please reconfirm details prior to travel.
Contact:
Tourism Authority of Thailand
Email: info@tat.or.th
Website: www.tat.or.th
Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 (120 automatic lines)
Fax: +66 (0) 2250 5511 (two automatic lines)
FOR EVENT INFORMATION,
please call 1672.
Address:
1600 Petchaburi Road, Makkasan, Rajatevee
Bangkok 10400
Thailand
PHIMAI FESTIVAL
An annual festival held for more than a century, the traditional long-boat races draw thousands of visitors from all over.
This event is further enhanced by a light and sound presentation at Prasat Hin Phimai, local art and cultural performances, various fun-filled competitions, and sales of local products and exhibitions.
Contact information:
Tourism Authority of Thailand, Nakhon Ratchasima office
Tel: +66 (0) 4421 3030, (0) 4421 3666
Fax: +66 (0) 4421 3667
E-mail: tatsima@tat.or.th
Phimai District Office
Tel: +66 (0) 4447 1617, (0) 4448 1853
IMPORTANT
Event dates and programme details may be subject to change.
Many of the festivals and events listed on Thailand's official calendar of annual events are traditional Buddhist or folk festivals, the date of which is either determined by the Buddhist lunar calendar and waxing and waning moon. These are not staged events. The festivals reflect the rhythm of life in rural Thai villages and local traditions as observed in times past. To ensure you have the most updated information, please reconfirm details prior to travel.
Contact:
Tourism Authority of Thailand
Email: info@tat.or.th
Website: www.tat.or.th
Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 (120 automatic lines)
Fax: +66 (0) 2250 5511 (two automatic lines)
FOR EVENT INFORMATION,
please call 1672.
BANGKOK’S 9TH INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF DANCE AND MUSIC
It has been nine years since Bangkok took its first steps towards establishing itself as a Southeast Asian cultural hub. Its been nine years since Bangkok’s International Festival of Dance & Music set the ball rolling. Today the festival has garnered a reputation for excellence presenting only the best from around the world to discerning audiences in Bangkok. In keeping with this tradition the ninth edition (Sept 9-11 Oct) of the festival has in store acts that will find favour even with the most demanding of patrons.
As Thailand celebrates His Majesty the King’s 80th Birthday this year, the festival in effect is dedicated to Him and opens with a spectacular performance paying homage to the musician in His Majesty. During his reign His Majesty has penned some 48 compositions, many in the blues style and the opening act, ‘His Majesty’s Blues Concert’, has 25 of Thailand’s leading singers giving voice to some of these compositions. Accompanied by an orchestra, singers like Ford Sobchai Kraiyurasen, Jennifer Kim, Radklao Amaradit, Ta Surachai Wongbuakao and Ben Chalatit Tantiwut among others, will more than do justice to the compositions. Pongprom Sanitwong Na Ayuthaya, producer, composer and musician is the man behind this amazing project. It was in 2006 that over a 100 Thai artists, cutting across label lines came together in celebration of the 60th Anniversary of His Majesty’s Accession to the Throne. A four set CD album was also released which soon became a collector’s item. This blues concert is another opportunity to hear rare compositions in concert and makes for a fitting opening to a spectacular festival.
More in Music
Music has been central to the festival through the years and this edition too has a lot to offer: a percussion ensemble from India, a symphony concert and an evening devoted to jazz. On Sept 12, an all-female percussion ensemble, Stree Shakti will take the stage. Led by Anuradha Pal it is one of India’s leading percussion ensembles and Anuradha Pal is arguably one of the sub-continents best percussionists. Using traditional percussion instruments like tabla, ghatam, kanjira, pakhawaj and mridangam the ensemble churns out powerful beats. The music finds its basis in the classical traditions of India but is in no way out of context in the modern era.
Moving to another classical tradition, Sept 23 sees a symphony concert by the Ekaterinburg Symphony Orchestra. The orchestra dates back to 1912 and is one of the best operatic and Ballet orchestras in Russia. In honour of His Majesty (Rama IX) ’s Birthday the orchestra will tackle Symphony No. IX in D minor, Op. 125 by Ludwig Van Beethoven. This symphony by Beethoven was a landmark event, for the first time a composer used the human voice like he would an instrument. So expect a full chorus with four soloist singers. Also on the programme is Scheherazade Op. 35 by Nikolai Rimsky- Korsakov. Conductor Mikahil Granovsky from the Bolshoi Theatre, one of the most looked- forward to conductors in Russia will take the baton.
On 8th October jazz and popular music fans will hear all permutations and combinations possible, First on is Coda Jazz Group from Australia which effortlessly blends classical, rock, electronic, operatic with jazz, creating a rich tapestry of music, With three albums to their credit the group popular on the Australian festival circuit, will delight with its heady mix.The same evening Saskia Laroo band from The Netherlands takes the stage next. Saskia Laroo has been hailed by the American press as ‘Lady Miles’. A trumpet stylist, Saskia’s multi-national unit pulsates with contemporary sounds, groovy rhythms, exciting solos, and rap vocals. Saskia has performed with the likes of George Benson and is a name well received all over the world including at festivals like Montreux. The last act of the evening is Monsieur Camembert which has been at the forefront of ‘Gyprock’ explosion in Australia for the past eight years. A triple Aria Award winning ensemble, with Yaron Hallis leading from the front the group promises the ultimate in music.
The Opera Quotient
When it comes to music Operas are the ultimate expression and this festival sees two: Eugene Onegin (Sept 22) and La Traviata (Sept 24) both staged by Ekaterinburg Opera Theatre, Russia, one of the oldest and most respected companies in Russia. The staging of Eugene Onegin is a remarkable event; it is the first Russian opera to be staged in Bangkok ever. An opera in three parts the story centres around a selfish hero who lives to regret his blasω rejection of a young woman's love and his careless incitement of a fatal duel with his best friend. It is the perfect example of a lyric opera and closely follows Pushkin’s original work. Around 180 artists (cast and orchestra) will bring to stage this, Tchaiovsky masterpiece.
The second opera of the season is a Verdi favourite: La Traviata. Based on Alexandre Dumas’ play La dame aux Cameilas it is an intimate work dealing with the conflict between the ‘real’ world of love and the ‘false’ world of societal expectations. The hero is tricked into giving up his love because she is well below his ‘station’. Playing Violetta is soprano Natalia Margrit, Italy’s most well-known soprano and a regular performer at La Scala and the Paris Opera House (she has also performed with Jose Carreras), while Alfredo is tackled by Dmytro Kuzmin, a soloist with the Kiev Opera House.
The Magic of Ballets
This festival sees the ballet take on a contemporary hue beginning with Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company which on Sept 18 presents ‘Upon Reaching the Sun’, taking its cue from an excerpt from ‘Woyzeck’, the fragmentary play by 19th-century German writer Georg Bωchner. The excerpt describes the imaginary journey of a lonely orphan girl. The Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company is one of Israel's most prominent dance companies identified with the works of its artistic director – Rami Be'er. Expect a cutting-edge contemporary dance performance.
Compagnia Aterballetto, Italy goes into more familiar territory with Romeo and Juliet (Sept 27). This is the first full performance of Romeo and Juliet as a contemporary ballet. At the helm of the company is Artistic Director Mario Bigonzetti one of Italy’s most critically acclaimed and famous contemporary choreographers. Expect a striking, eclectic performance with spectacular sets and costumes, both designed by the world- famous installation artist Fabrizio Plessi.
The next instalment in ballet takes a classical detour with Swan Lake (Sept 29-30) followed by a neo-classical Pedro & Inωs (Oct 2), both ballets are by Portuguese National Ballet.
Every one in Bangkok is familiar with Swan lake but this version has an unexpected twist in the tale. A staging that just has to be seen. Pedro & Ines is based on a true story. The ballet centres around Pedro, the son and heir of King Alfonso IV, who was forced to marry Princess Constanza even though he was in love with Inωs. After his wife’s death Pedro fled to be with Inωs. Inωs, however, is murdered on the orders of the king. On succeeding to the throne Pedro had Ines’ corpse exhumed and crowned. The court was forced to acknowledge her as queen by kneeling before her and kissing her decomposed hand.
Never has Thailand seen such a dramatic and shockingly true story told on stage. The use of huge water tank on stage as the performance arena adds to the drama. Following this dramatic staging is another one, that of A Midsummer Night’s Dream by Zurich Ballet (Oct6-7). A ballet in two acts it is based on William Shakespeare’s romantic comedy that portrays the adventures of four young Athenian lovers and a group of amateur actors, their interactions with the Duke and Duchess of Athens, Theseus and Hippolyta, and with fairies who inhabit a moonlit forest. Classified as Zurich Ballets biggest production, this ballet has the most amazing sets ever seen yet. Consider the fact that they are shipped to Thailand in four 40ft containers by sea and over 65 cubic metres by air and you can begin to understand the size of the production.
At the helm of this, one of Europe’s foremost ballet companies, is Artistic Director Heinz Sporeli, the continent’s most celebrated choreographer. Adding their might to the production are actors (Anthony O’Donnel and Bill Alexander) from Royal Shakespeare Company, London and an orchestra led by well- known conductor James Tuggle from USA.
Traditional Dances
The saga of traditional dance this festival begins with India and one of its foremost exponents of kathak: Pallabi De. Kathak is one of six major classical dances of India and the most dynamic. This performance (Sept 12) by Pallabi De and her group will trace the history of the dance form from the temples of ancient India to its modern incarnation.
Next on are traditional dances from Veracruz, Mexico by Grupo Jarocho National Dance Company (Sept 14). The Spanish word Jarocho describes a person or music from the state or city of Veracruz and this show is a musical expression of the creative core of Jarocho directed by Richard O’ Neal (former assistant director of Riverdance).60 dancers and technicians pay homage to the mix of European, African and indigenous roots that is Veracruz reflected in its music and dance traditions.
While Tango is by no means a traditional dance it holds that status in Argentina. On Sept 16 come face to face with the fiery passion of Argentinean tango with No -Bailaras Tango Company. Argentina’s best known choreographer Silvana grill presents a performance, ‘Grotesque Passion Dance’, that synthesizes traditional tango into a dramatic contemporary showcase
South Korea steps in next with the Seoul Metropolitan Dance Theatre (Sept 20). A keeper of the flame as far as the traditional dances of Korea go, the company’s mission is to serve as a springboard for Korean dance worldwide. More than 40 of Korea’s most talented dancers will take to the stage.
The finale
Bringing the curtain down on this nearly six-week long festival are two performances by Ballet Nacional de Espana (Oct 10-11). Over 50 dancers of Spain’s leading dance company will present Flamenco and Spanish Dances in three productions: Caprichos, Dualia and Cambalache. The training ground of every Spanish dancer of note, the company has preserved all styles of Spanish dance yet has managed to combine tradition with modernity with surprising ease. Director Jose Antonio’s career is defined by his wide body of work as a director and in 2005, he was awarded the ‘Medalla de Oro al Mωrito en las Bellas Artes’, by the Spanish Ministry of Culture. Expect to be stunned by this electrifying performance.
As Thailand celebrates His Majesty the King’s 80th Birthday this year, the festival in effect is dedicated to Him and opens with a spectacular performance paying homage to the musician in His Majesty. During his reign His Majesty has penned some 48 compositions, many in the blues style and the opening act, ‘His Majesty’s Blues Concert’, has 25 of Thailand’s leading singers giving voice to some of these compositions. Accompanied by an orchestra, singers like Ford Sobchai Kraiyurasen, Jennifer Kim, Radklao Amaradit, Ta Surachai Wongbuakao and Ben Chalatit Tantiwut among others, will more than do justice to the compositions. Pongprom Sanitwong Na Ayuthaya, producer, composer and musician is the man behind this amazing project. It was in 2006 that over a 100 Thai artists, cutting across label lines came together in celebration of the 60th Anniversary of His Majesty’s Accession to the Throne. A four set CD album was also released which soon became a collector’s item. This blues concert is another opportunity to hear rare compositions in concert and makes for a fitting opening to a spectacular festival.
More in Music
Music has been central to the festival through the years and this edition too has a lot to offer: a percussion ensemble from India, a symphony concert and an evening devoted to jazz. On Sept 12, an all-female percussion ensemble, Stree Shakti will take the stage. Led by Anuradha Pal it is one of India’s leading percussion ensembles and Anuradha Pal is arguably one of the sub-continents best percussionists. Using traditional percussion instruments like tabla, ghatam, kanjira, pakhawaj and mridangam the ensemble churns out powerful beats. The music finds its basis in the classical traditions of India but is in no way out of context in the modern era.
Moving to another classical tradition, Sept 23 sees a symphony concert by the Ekaterinburg Symphony Orchestra. The orchestra dates back to 1912 and is one of the best operatic and Ballet orchestras in Russia. In honour of His Majesty (Rama IX) ’s Birthday the orchestra will tackle Symphony No. IX in D minor, Op. 125 by Ludwig Van Beethoven. This symphony by Beethoven was a landmark event, for the first time a composer used the human voice like he would an instrument. So expect a full chorus with four soloist singers. Also on the programme is Scheherazade Op. 35 by Nikolai Rimsky- Korsakov. Conductor Mikahil Granovsky from the Bolshoi Theatre, one of the most looked- forward to conductors in Russia will take the baton.
On 8th October jazz and popular music fans will hear all permutations and combinations possible, First on is Coda Jazz Group from Australia which effortlessly blends classical, rock, electronic, operatic with jazz, creating a rich tapestry of music, With three albums to their credit the group popular on the Australian festival circuit, will delight with its heady mix.The same evening Saskia Laroo band from The Netherlands takes the stage next. Saskia Laroo has been hailed by the American press as ‘Lady Miles’. A trumpet stylist, Saskia’s multi-national unit pulsates with contemporary sounds, groovy rhythms, exciting solos, and rap vocals. Saskia has performed with the likes of George Benson and is a name well received all over the world including at festivals like Montreux. The last act of the evening is Monsieur Camembert which has been at the forefront of ‘Gyprock’ explosion in Australia for the past eight years. A triple Aria Award winning ensemble, with Yaron Hallis leading from the front the group promises the ultimate in music.
The Opera Quotient
When it comes to music Operas are the ultimate expression and this festival sees two: Eugene Onegin (Sept 22) and La Traviata (Sept 24) both staged by Ekaterinburg Opera Theatre, Russia, one of the oldest and most respected companies in Russia. The staging of Eugene Onegin is a remarkable event; it is the first Russian opera to be staged in Bangkok ever. An opera in three parts the story centres around a selfish hero who lives to regret his blasω rejection of a young woman's love and his careless incitement of a fatal duel with his best friend. It is the perfect example of a lyric opera and closely follows Pushkin’s original work. Around 180 artists (cast and orchestra) will bring to stage this, Tchaiovsky masterpiece.
The second opera of the season is a Verdi favourite: La Traviata. Based on Alexandre Dumas’ play La dame aux Cameilas it is an intimate work dealing with the conflict between the ‘real’ world of love and the ‘false’ world of societal expectations. The hero is tricked into giving up his love because she is well below his ‘station’. Playing Violetta is soprano Natalia Margrit, Italy’s most well-known soprano and a regular performer at La Scala and the Paris Opera House (she has also performed with Jose Carreras), while Alfredo is tackled by Dmytro Kuzmin, a soloist with the Kiev Opera House.
The Magic of Ballets
This festival sees the ballet take on a contemporary hue beginning with Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company which on Sept 18 presents ‘Upon Reaching the Sun’, taking its cue from an excerpt from ‘Woyzeck’, the fragmentary play by 19th-century German writer Georg Bωchner. The excerpt describes the imaginary journey of a lonely orphan girl. The Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company is one of Israel's most prominent dance companies identified with the works of its artistic director – Rami Be'er. Expect a cutting-edge contemporary dance performance.
Compagnia Aterballetto, Italy goes into more familiar territory with Romeo and Juliet (Sept 27). This is the first full performance of Romeo and Juliet as a contemporary ballet. At the helm of the company is Artistic Director Mario Bigonzetti one of Italy’s most critically acclaimed and famous contemporary choreographers. Expect a striking, eclectic performance with spectacular sets and costumes, both designed by the world- famous installation artist Fabrizio Plessi.
The next instalment in ballet takes a classical detour with Swan Lake (Sept 29-30) followed by a neo-classical Pedro & Inωs (Oct 2), both ballets are by Portuguese National Ballet.
Every one in Bangkok is familiar with Swan lake but this version has an unexpected twist in the tale. A staging that just has to be seen. Pedro & Ines is based on a true story. The ballet centres around Pedro, the son and heir of King Alfonso IV, who was forced to marry Princess Constanza even though he was in love with Inωs. After his wife’s death Pedro fled to be with Inωs. Inωs, however, is murdered on the orders of the king. On succeeding to the throne Pedro had Ines’ corpse exhumed and crowned. The court was forced to acknowledge her as queen by kneeling before her and kissing her decomposed hand.
Never has Thailand seen such a dramatic and shockingly true story told on stage. The use of huge water tank on stage as the performance arena adds to the drama. Following this dramatic staging is another one, that of A Midsummer Night’s Dream by Zurich Ballet (Oct6-7). A ballet in two acts it is based on William Shakespeare’s romantic comedy that portrays the adventures of four young Athenian lovers and a group of amateur actors, their interactions with the Duke and Duchess of Athens, Theseus and Hippolyta, and with fairies who inhabit a moonlit forest. Classified as Zurich Ballets biggest production, this ballet has the most amazing sets ever seen yet. Consider the fact that they are shipped to Thailand in four 40ft containers by sea and over 65 cubic metres by air and you can begin to understand the size of the production.
At the helm of this, one of Europe’s foremost ballet companies, is Artistic Director Heinz Sporeli, the continent’s most celebrated choreographer. Adding their might to the production are actors (Anthony O’Donnel and Bill Alexander) from Royal Shakespeare Company, London and an orchestra led by well- known conductor James Tuggle from USA.
Traditional Dances
The saga of traditional dance this festival begins with India and one of its foremost exponents of kathak: Pallabi De. Kathak is one of six major classical dances of India and the most dynamic. This performance (Sept 12) by Pallabi De and her group will trace the history of the dance form from the temples of ancient India to its modern incarnation.
Next on are traditional dances from Veracruz, Mexico by Grupo Jarocho National Dance Company (Sept 14). The Spanish word Jarocho describes a person or music from the state or city of Veracruz and this show is a musical expression of the creative core of Jarocho directed by Richard O’ Neal (former assistant director of Riverdance).60 dancers and technicians pay homage to the mix of European, African and indigenous roots that is Veracruz reflected in its music and dance traditions.
While Tango is by no means a traditional dance it holds that status in Argentina. On Sept 16 come face to face with the fiery passion of Argentinean tango with No -Bailaras Tango Company. Argentina’s best known choreographer Silvana grill presents a performance, ‘Grotesque Passion Dance’, that synthesizes traditional tango into a dramatic contemporary showcase
South Korea steps in next with the Seoul Metropolitan Dance Theatre (Sept 20). A keeper of the flame as far as the traditional dances of Korea go, the company’s mission is to serve as a springboard for Korean dance worldwide. More than 40 of Korea’s most talented dancers will take to the stage.
The finale
Bringing the curtain down on this nearly six-week long festival are two performances by Ballet Nacional de Espana (Oct 10-11). Over 50 dancers of Spain’s leading dance company will present Flamenco and Spanish Dances in three productions: Caprichos, Dualia and Cambalache. The training ground of every Spanish dancer of note, the company has preserved all styles of Spanish dance yet has managed to combine tradition with modernity with surprising ease. Director Jose Antonio’s career is defined by his wide body of work as a director and in 2005, he was awarded the ‘Medalla de Oro al Mωrito en las Bellas Artes’, by the Spanish Ministry of Culture. Expect to be stunned by this electrifying performance.
CHUMPHON TRADITIONAL BOAT RACES
The Chumphon traditional boat race was highlighted as one of the unusual attractions under the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s ‘Unseen Thailand’ theme.
While the winner of other traditional Thai long-boat races held nationwide is decided by the team that crosses the finishing line first, contestants in the Chumphon traditional boat races face an additional challenge. In addition to speed, to be declared the winner of the Chumphon boat race, a member of the crew climbs up the bow and reaches for the marker flag.
The traditional boats used in the Chumphon boat races are hand-crafted vessels dug-out from the trunk of a single tree. The Takien (Hopea) is the tree of choice. Although it is a hardwood tree, the trunk is buoyant. It is also water-resistant. The vessels are stream-lined with a broad bow (‘khon ruea’ in Thai) tapering into a narrow stern that ends in a scorpion-like tail. The bow is made from light-weight wood from a jackfruit tree. The vessel is crafted to ensure maximum speed. The bow of the craft cuts through the water with least resistance.
The Chumphon traditional boat race is an annual event held at the end of the Buddhist Lent in October. Prior to the boat races being held, Tak Baht Devo Buddhist merit-making rituals are conducted to mark the end of the Buddhist Lent. Activities include the presentation of merit-making offerings such as offerings of food, incense sticks, candles and monk’s robes, followed by land-borne and water-borne processions, contests that draw attention to the various aspects of the hand-crafted traditional long-boats such as the design and decoration of the vessels, and cheerleading contests.
In 2009, the Chumphon boat races are being held during 5-9 October with the final boat races being held during 5-9 October. The boat races held on 9 October will be broadcasted live nationwide on Thai Public Broadcasting Service (TPBS or Thai PBS), one of the public television stations in Thailand, from 14.00 – 16.00 hours.
Contact information:
Tourism Authority of Thailand, Chumphon Office
Tel: +66 (0) 7755 6190-1
Fax: +66 (0) 7755 6191
E-mail: tatchumphon@tat.or.th
IMPORTANT
Event dates and programme details may be subject to change.
Many of the festivals and events listed on Thailand's official calendar of annual events are traditional Buddhist or folk festivals, the date of which is either determined by the Buddhist lunar calendar and waxing and waning moon. These are not staged events. The festivals reflect the rhythm of life in rural Thai villages and local traditions as observed in times past. To ensure you have the most updated information, please reconfirm details prior to travel.
October 5-9, 2009/ 10.00 – 17.00 hrs
Amphoe Lang Suan (district), Chumphon
Contact:
Tourism Authority of Thailand
Email: info@tat.or.th
Website: www.tat.or.th
Tel: +66 (0) 2250 5500 (120 automatic lines)
Fax: +66 (0) 2250 5511 (two automatic lines)
LOI KRATHONG – FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
As the full moon of the twelfth lunar month (usually in mid-November) lights up the night sky, throughout the Thai kingdom, hundreds of thousands of ornately-decorated krathong or traditional banana leaf floats are set adrift in rivers and waterways in a spell-binding ritual called "Loi Krathong" - the 'festival of lights". This is one of the Kingdom's oldest and best-preserved traditions.
The Loi Krathong tradition we know of today has evolved from the royal rituals of the early Rattanakosin period in which several types of lanterns were set afloat in the Chao Phraya River and its waterways.
Loi Krathong Sai on the Ping River
Night of A Thousand Floating Lanterns
In Tak province, the banana-leaf floats are replaced by coconut shells which are threaded together and launched simultaneously so they appear as long chains of hundreds of glittering lights on the Ping River, hence the origin of its name, "Loi Krathong Sai".
Yi-Peng Festival in Northern Thailand
In the Northern Thai provinces that were once part of the ancient Lanna Thai kingdom, the Yi-peng Northern Lantern Festival is still being celebrated. Tubular lanterns, resembling hot air balloons, are lit and released into the night sky as an offering the Lord Buddha. As hundreds of illuminated lanterns drift into infinity, this conjures the same sense of wistful closure as the krathong float downstream.
In Bangkok: October 29 - November 2, 2009
Nationwide: October 29 - November 2, 2009
Contact information:
TAT Call Centre: 1672
Or TAT Event Planning Division
Tel: +66 (0) 250 5500 Ext 3495-3499
The Mekong River, Nakhon Phanom
As night falls, majestic ‘fire boats’, elaborately-adorned with flowers, incense sticks, candles and lanterns and each bearing an assortment of ritual offerings, are set alight and floated down the Mekong River.
Against the darkness of the moonlit night, the sight of flickering light from candles and lanterns on magnificent ‘fire boats’ drifting downstream on the Mekong River, is both mesmerising and awe-inspiring. It is this enchanting spectacle that has given the water-borne procession its very name — ‘Lai Reua Fai', which literally means to set afloat a ‘fire boat’.
The illuminated boat procession is celebrated in I-San, the northeastern region of Thailand on the 15th day of the waxing moon to the first day of the waning moon in the 11th lunar month of the Buddhist calendar, usually a month earlier than the corresponding month in the conventional calendar. This dazzling event marks the end of the Buddhist Lent or ‘Ok pansa’ and is accompanied by a colourful street procession and cultural performances which add to the highlights of the event which is held annually.
Contact information:
Tourism Authority of Thailand, Nakhon Phanom Office
Tel: +66 (0) 4251 3490-1
Fax: +66 (0) 4251 3492
E-mail: tatphnom@tat.or.th
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Bang Fai Phaya Nak (Naga Fireball)
This extraordinary miracle always happens) at the beginning of the full moon in the eleventh lunar month (end of Buddhist Lent. It is along the Mekong River in the districts of Mueang, Phon Phisai, Pak Khat, Bung Kan, Tha Bo, Si Chiang Mai and Sangkhom be seen. Bang Fai Phaya Nak is a term for red and pink fireballs, which are likely to belong to Phaya Nak or the great serpent of the underwater world. On the day that marks the end of Buddhist Lent, a large number of people who come to witness this phenomenon.
Naga Fireball Festival in Nong Khai
It remains a mystery, the puzzle for visitors and residents alike continue. What exactly is the origin and nature of the fireballs that fly from the surface of the Mekong River to see high in the sky for all?
Local swear, there's absolutely no doubt about the origin of the fireballs. Naga, the snake, which drives the life in the reports, the turbid streams of this river, fireballs into heaven, probably for the villagers to remember to treat this vital river with respect.
Of course there are critics, researchers are dedicated to trying for years to explain the phenomenon of the fireball, all without success.
Some say it's an elaborate hoax, but the only way to say it is organized to Nong Khai travel and check out river scene and Carnival, the villagers to celebrate the famous legendary serpent.
Ceremonies, 10 run until October 16, along the Mekong River in PISAI Phon district in the province of Nong Khai. Celebrations are also relevant in the Lao river and no shortage of theories about whether the neighbors Thailand, on the opposite shore can know more than they are what the host of the show.
But you can not deny that there is something almost mystical that causes fireballs explode on the surface of the river, and farmers are at risk, ie religious activities at various temples in the district to appease the Naga.
Visitors can participate in a traditional ceremony to "Tak Bat Theves" or early morning alms to monks. It's about sticky rice wrapped in coconut leaves, also announced today important last three months of Buddhist Lent.
At night, during the week of the festival, people gather on the banks of the river for Naga procession and cultural representation that reflects the traditions of rural village in the northeastern region.
If all goes as planned, the highlight of the trip is the spectacular view of the Naga fireballs outbreak in the sky, a phenomenon which is likely to soon be a few light-hearted jokes and arguments into the river more food stalls glasses of beer or rice whiskey origin.
The most convenient way to reach Nong Khai is one of the many offers daily flights from Bangkok to Udon Thani taken down in the national carrier Thai Airways International, or one of the low cost airlines. The flight takes 50 minutes and Udon Thani, mini-buses provide a 40-minute transfer to Nong Khai. An alternative is the train that takes each night from Bangkok to Nong Khai to take.
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