Royal Khon performance celebrates Thai heritage through ‘Sida’

Thailand’s annual royal-sponsored Khon masked dance performance returns this November with Sida, a new production of the Ramakien epic that celebrates traditional Thai performing arts and the legacy of the late Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, in preserving the centuries-old art form.

The SUPPORT Foundation of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother held a special press preview of Ramakien: Sida at the Main Hall of the Thailand Cultural Centre in Bangkok on 31 October at 19.00, ahead of public performances scheduled from 5 November to 10 December 2026.

The production continues the Queen Mother’s longstanding efforts to revive and preserve Khon, one of Thailand’s most elaborate classical performing arts, combining masked dance, traditional music, narration and intricate costumes.

The late Queen Mother was known for her determination to keep the art form alive, once declaring: “If nobody watches, I will watch it myself.”

Her support extended beyond the performances themselves to the traditional craftsmanship involved in creating Khon costumes, headdresses, masks and jewellery, as well as training younger generations under experienced masters.

This year’s production also marks the auspicious occasion of Queen Suthida’s 48th birthday.

The story of Sida

Based on the Ramakien literary work composed under King Rama I, the performance follows the life of Sida, the Thai counterpart of Sita in the Indian Ramayana epic.

The story begins with Sida’s birth and her marriage to Phra Ram, before following the couple into exile in the forest.

It then recounts her abduction by the demon king Thotsakan, who takes her to Lanka, and her ordeal of walking through fire to prove her purity and faithfulness.

The production features eight elaborate scenes, tracing major events in Sida’s life and the wider Ramakien narrative, including battles involving Phra Ram and Thotsakan, Hanuman’s adventures and the eventual reunion of Phra Ram with his sons.

Organisers said the performance combines traditional choreography with elaborate stage designs, costumes and visual effects, reflecting the craftsmanship and artistic traditions associated with royal Khon productions.

Preserving Thailand’s classical heritage

The SUPPORT Foundation’s annual Khon performances have played a role in preserving traditional Thai dance and craftsmanship, bringing together performers, musicians, costume makers, mask artisans and other specialists.

The initiative also provides opportunities for younger performers to learn from experienced teachers, helping pass on traditional techniques to future generations.

This year’s production continues that mission while introducing audiences to Sida’s story through a large-scale theatrical presentation.

Performance dates and tickets

Ramakien: Sida will be staged at the Main Hall of the Thailand Cultural Centre in Bangkok from 5 November to 10 December 2026.

Tickets are priced at 600, 800, 1,000, 1,800 and 2,000 baht, with special student performances priced at 200 baht.

Tickets are available through ThaiTicketMajor or by calling 02-262-3456.