Grand Shadow Play at Wat Sawang Arom

Tonight we attended a shadow play. After the play we were allowed to handle the shadow figures. Here are Dale and Megan each holding one. The play depicted an ancient epic about the Battle of the ten-headed demon. We all had a really good time and had a chance to see more of the wonderful Thai culture.



Here are two of the pros. This was taken mid-step for the players during one of the battle scenes. All of the players were young and strong. That is with the exception of the opening three men. John spoke with one of them and he said he is 82! Amazing!


Some of the scenes depicted are of battles. Here are two of us trying to re-enact what we saw the performers do when there was a battle going on.


Although all of the "official" players were male that didn't stop some PC ladies from trying their hand at holding one of these heavy figures high! At least long enough for a photo.


Some of us tried to duplicate the dance-type steps used by the players while moving with their figures held high. This is a pretty good idea of what it looked like. Not as easy as you may think! (if you would like to see a larger version of any photo please just double click on the image.)


Pretty good coordination in the foot movement wouldn't you say? But I think the professionals are still safe from any PC people taking their jobs. Huh?


We were told that the average figure weights about 15 pounds. The players accompany the carrying of each figure with what looks like definite elaborate almost dance steps. It looks pretty hard. But here is Bill and he seems to be having no problem holding this figure up high!


Each figure is held high by a different player. Here you can see some of us trying to mimic the movements of the players. Mock battles are fought with the winner (of course) being the figure that represents good.


Tucker is holding one of the heavier more elaborate shadow figures. Each figure is made of leather that has been meticulously colored and carved out with the results being a wonderfully detailed character or scene.


Of course John had to try his hand and holding a figure up high with one of the younger volunteers. He said "it was not too heavy (for the first 4 minutes or so!).