Dance, Music, and Drama The history of Thailand is encapsulated in its traditional dance and theater as well as in visual arts. Formal performances can be seen at the National Theater in Bangkok. However, the richest bounty is often in the form of street shows in front of shrines and temples, especially during festivals and celebrations. Look in the newspaper for announcements of performances. Thai music is very intricate and is a usual accompaniment of Thai drama.
Musicians sit on the floor to play, and generally play by ear.
Dance in Thailand is equally intricate, derived from Indian dancing and involving a series of gestures and swaying that interpret a story. Even the smallest movements reflect important story threads, carefully woven by performers dressed in elaborate clothing and headgear. Although many of the artistic treasures of Thailand are of great antiquity, it can be argued that the regional handicrafts found all over Thailand also have a good deal of artistic merit. Silk-making has always been a home industry in Thailand. Young women were expected to rear their own silk worms, produce the yarn, and weave all the fabric for their family life.