Likay

Watching a live 'likay' show is akin to watching a western style panto as everyone is there to have fun, including the actors. Thai dance (Ram Thai) is Thailand's main form of dramatic art. There are two main forms, classical dance and folk dance, likay falling into the folk category.

The costumes are usually comical but also may contain elements of traditional dress. you will normally find men playing the female roles of the mother or grandmother, with heavily applied make up and ill fitting clothes. The two main roles of the lovers are always played by hansom men and beautiful girls wearing wonderful dresses.

The stories told can be either old or new, and include the singing of comedy songs, ballads and hammed up acting. You will most likely catch one of these shows during a local village festival.

There is always a large turnout at these events, the crowd being surrounded by food and drink vendors. Just the thing for a quick snack between songs. They are well worth a viewing, even if like me you find them a bit hard to understand.