Epic performances

The Nattayasala puppet theatre is bringing "Tamnan Phra Rahoo", or "The Myth of Rahoo and the Lunar Eclipse", to Stage 2 at Sanam Luang as part of the cultural activities surrounding the cremation ceremony of Her Royal Highness the late Princess Galyani Vadhana.

The Princess saw the traditional Hun Lakorn Lek puppet show on her last visit to the Suanlum Night Bazaar theatre two years ago, shortly after the troupe won first prize at the World Festival of Puppet Art. More performers and special effects have been added for what will be the firstever puppet performance on such a sombre Royal occasion.

Khon and nang yai

The Culture Ministry's Fine Arts Department is hosting a programme of traditional performances at Sanam Luang from tomorrow till Wednesday, with shows starting at 7pm.

Stage 1 is home to khon (mask plays) and nang yai (shadow plays).

The khon performance style, which goes back to the time of King Rama II, may be considered oldfashioned by many, but the Fine Arts Department's Prasat Thongaram reckons the stories are full of power relationships that apply to modern society. "It's all in the Ramakian," he says.

Stage 2 features lakorn nok ("male" puppets). Supachai Chansuwan, supervisor of the lakorn nok shows, says that despite their lighter content, the graceful dancing steps and singing in the performances appeals to modern audiences.

Showtimes, tomorrow till Wednesday

Stage 1: A combination of nang yai (shadow drama) and khon tells the story of the Ramayana. The performance starts at 7pm and lasts 11 hours.

Stage 2

The "Phra Aphaimanee" puppet show starts at 7pm and lasts two hours and 30 minutes.

The onehour "Tamnan Phra Rahoo", or "The Myth of Rahoo and the Lunar Eclipse" puppet performance starts at 11pm.

The "Suwannahongse" puppet show runs from midnight till 3.30am.

Your survival kit should include:

Mat or sleeping bag, umbrella or raincoat, drinks and snacks, camera, tissues, mosquito repellent and a bag for your garbage.