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Khon is one of Thailand’s most elaborate performing arts
seamlessly blending music, dance, literature and craftsmanship. In 2018 UNESCO inscribed Khon on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, making it the first Thai performing art to receive global recognition [4]. Earlier, in 2009, the Department of Cultural Promotion declared Khon a national intangible cultural heritage [4]. These accolades reflect the historical and artistic value of Khon and encourage Thai society to preserve this heritage.
History and Origins
Khon originated during the Ayutthaya period (1350–1767). It began as a Brahmanical ceremony to honour Vishnu before evolving into dramatic storytelling based on the Ramakien and becoming popular among the nobility. Research by the Thailand Foundation notes that Khon is among the largest and most complex masked dramas in Thai performing arts [1]. The term “Khon” is thought to derive from the Pali words kla or kola, which refer to a two-faced drum used to mark the rhythm in rituals [1]. Khon also absorbed influences from other art forms, such as Chak‑Naga, the martial art of Krabi‑Krabong and the shadow puppet theatre Nang Yai [1].
Elements of the Performance
- Movement and music – Khon combines graceful dance movements with combat-like choreography, accompanied by classical music and refined singing [1].
- Storytelling and narration – Most stories are adapted from the Ramakien (the Thai version of the Ramayana) and are delivered through narration, singing and expressive body language.
- Costumes and masks – The costumes are made from silk brocaded with gold and silver threads and adorned with jewels. More than 100 types of ogre and monkey masks are crafted, each representing a specific character and considered sacred [2].
Characters and Symbolism
Performers portray four main types of characters: phra (lords), nang (ladies), yak (ogres) and ling (monkeys). Each group has its own distinctive gestures and body language. Historically, all roles wore masks, but today the human characters use elaborate makeup while the ogres and monkeys still wear masks [1]. Khon narratives often incorporate moral lessons and ethical teachings, reflecting Thai cultural values [4].
Khon and World Cultural Heritage
UNESCO describes Khon as a performing art that combines graceful movements with singing and shimmering costumes. It serves a didactic purpose by portraying the life of Rama, an avatar of Vishnu and the upholder of cosmic justice [3]. Traditionally taught within royal courts or master dancers’ households, Khon is now taught in schools, universities and community settings, preserving the traditional methods while broadening access [3].
As a significant symbol of Thai identity, Khon’s inscription on UNESCO’s Representative List in November 2018 heightened interest both domestically and abroad [4]. Government bodies and cultural organisations now work together to stage and promote Khon performances, ensuring that new generations can experience and carry forward this precious art form.
Preservation and Transmission
Today Khon is no longer confined to royal circles. Performances can be seen in schools, arts institutions, villages and festivals across Thailand. Performers begin training at a young age to develop the flexibility, strength and precision required, and mask and costume making continues to use traditional techniques to safeguard the craftsmanship and spirit of Khon.
Conclusion
Khon is a beautifully crafted masked dance drama that encapsulates multiple art forms. Its narratives impart moral and philosophical lessons, while its visual splendour symbolises the nation’s cultural heritage. UNESCO’s recognition underscores Khon’s artistic and historical significance and encourages the Thai community to actively preserve and promote this unique art for future generations.
References
- Thailand Foundation. “Khon: The Crown Jewel of Thai Performance Arts.” Accessed 27 July 2025.
- Thailand Foundation. “Khon: Forms of Characters and Beliefs.” Accessed 27 July 2025.
- UNESCO. “Khon, Masked Dance Drama in Thailand – Video & Sound Collections.” Published 2017.
- TAT Newsroom. “Khon – the Beautiful and Mesmerising Masked Dance Drama of Thailand.” 14 September 2022.
