Expert recommendations of the top dance, theater, and classical music performances.
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Patravadi Theatre & Studio 9
“Best modern dance performances in Bangkok.”—Chawadee Nualkhair, entertainment writer, BK Magazine. Established by actress Patravadi Mejudhon, open-air theater and studio hosting live music and dance, known especially for fusion of Thai and Western styles. Tickets from $13. 69/1 Soi Wat Rakang, Th Arun Amarin; tel. +66 (0) 2412 7287. www.patravaditheatre.com
Bangkok Opera
“This new company has a growing international reputation.”—Joel Quenby, entertainment writer, Bangkok 101 magazine. Thailand’s first Western opera, fusing Western styles with Thai stories, or Thai variations on classics such as Turandot. Founded and inspired by Thai author SP Somtow, who adapts some operas himself. Check for latest venue. Tickets from $16. 232/14-16 Moo Baan Ruamjit, Sukhumvit Soi 22; tel. +66 (0) 2663 3236. www.bangkokopera.com
Thai Puppet Theater
One of the few remaining Thai puppet troupes, using traditional hun lakorn lek puppets in humorous shows. Formerly known as the Joe Louis puppeteers, it is due to move location before 2009 so check the website. Tickets $29. Suan Lum Night Bazaar, 1875 Th Rama IV, Pathumwan; tel. +66 (0) 2252 9683. www.thaipuppet.com
Sala Rim Naam
“A rite of passage for visitors to Bangkok.”—Chawadee Nualkhair. Run by the Oriental Hotel across the river, this restaurant-cum-theater lets you watch khon, an ancient Thai tradition of masked dance, while eating Thai food around the circular stage. Tickets $70, including set menu. 48 Charoen Krung Soi 40; tel. +66 (0) 2437 6211. www.mandarinoriental.com/hotel/510000238.asp
Mambo Cabaret
“Thailand’s khatoey (“ladyboys”) have mastered the art of transgender reassignment; it’s mind-boggling.”—Mason Florence, founder and publisher, Bangkok 101 magazine. Musical gender benders camp it up in a sea of feather boas and sequins. Good fun and family friendly. Call ahead to make sure they’re not touring. Tickets from $19. Washington Theatre, 496 Th Sukhumvit, near Soi 22; tel. +66 (0) 2259 5715
Siam Opera
Opening in 2008, this is Bangkok’s most modern and functional theater and hosts performances ranging from traditional Thai dance to opera via symphony and musicals. Siam Paragon Shopping Complex, Th Rama 1; +66 (0) 2690 1000. www.siamparagon.co.th
