Joanna James
Thailand is a country that is so rich in culture, that a separate set of festivals and shows revolve around it as tourist attractions. There are a few you must not miss.
Siman Niramit's "A Journey to the Enchanted Kingdom of Thailand" is a spectacular show that is in fact listed in the Guinness World Records. With a massive troupe of about 150 performers taking over an equally massive stage, the performance revolves around Thai literature, common beliefs, as well as the history of each region. The performance is housed opposite the Thailand Cultural Centre and can accommodate up to 2000 people in each show.
If you are unable to visit any other culture show, at least make your way to Siam Niramit. Popular hotels like Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel are located less than half an hour away from the performance venue, making it an easy location to access.
Located on the third floor of King Power Complex Building down Rang Nam Road, the Aksra Theatre puts up a performance named "Aksra Hun Lakhon Lek". While the stage and the setting are much smaller than that of Siam Niramit, only 600 spectators per show, the performance is just as vibrant, albeit in a different way. There are traditional puppet shows, orchestral performances as well as classical dances included in this. In addition, Aksra Hun Lakhon Lek spectacularly illustrates stories from the Indian epic Ramayana, perform Japanese songs and even Korean songs.
You can always go for a drink and a bit of relaxation after the performance, as the Theatre is also home to a bar with quite a view.
If there is one place that would be listed in your Bangkok City Guide, it would be Muay Thai Live show. The show is aptly named "Muay Thai Live: The Legend Lives", and is a collaboration of Thai boxing and Muay Thai techniques that are performed in front of the audience. It also has an education aspect to it, in addition to the major entertainment aspect, in that the show also presents a comprehensive history on the development of Thai boxing since its origin.
You will also be able to witness two Thai Boxing matches where exhilarating fighting would occur, as the fighters are selected by Grand Master Sane Tubthimtong, the Muay Thai Legend.
If what you are seeking is something other than the usual performance in a theatre, Thai Village Culture Show at Sampran Riverside would be the place for you. The place is renowned for its scenic beauty, being located next to the river, and embodying a flower garden. With a land area of over 20 hectares, the place houses a restaurant and a Thai cultural village. Performances are put forward by the village daily and include folk dances, folk music, cultural shows and martial arts shows. Thai Village has been a key tourist attraction for decades now and is listed as a must-see as much for its picturesque nature as for its cultural value.
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