Khon, masked dance drama in Thailand, is performed on July 26. [Photo/Xiamen Daily]
This year marks the 49th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Thailand as well as the opening year of the "China-ASEAN Year of People-to-people Exchanges" event.
In celebration, as well as to promote cultural exchanges and enhance mutual understanding between China and ASEAN countries, the "Fantasy of Thailand the Series: Silk Road Friendship between Thailand-Fujian" cultural event took place in the Youth Palace in Jimei district, Xiamen, on July 26.
Performers offered their own renditions of Thailand's most representative dances and traditional musical pieces, displaying exquisite craftsmanship and unique artistry. The performances included Khon, a masked dance drama in Thailand, a UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritage, as well as Thai puppetry, one of the three most influential puppetry traditions in Asia.
Additionally, the audience in Xiamen enjoyed performances featuring the Thai xylophone, a traditional Thai musical instrument, offering a splendid Thai-style visual and auditory feast.
The performance concluded with the dance piece Silk Road Friendship between Thailand-Fujian, which seamlessly blending the tender and melodious tune of The Waves of Gulangyu. The choreography was meticulously crafted by Thai artists specifically for the show, leaving a lasting impression on the audience in Xiamen.
Relying on institutions like the ASEAN Culture and Art Exchange Center, Jimei district has hosted over 30 international exchange events featuring photography, film, and dance. These initiatives have nurtured numerous international cultural exchange brands, contributing to Xiamen as a "Cultural Center, City of Arts and Island of Music".