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Mor Lam (all)

204 images Created 24 Nov 2013

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  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: The stage for the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe (on left) in Bangkok. Sukhumvit Road and the Bangkok Sky Train (BTS) are on the right. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam122.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: The stage of the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe during a performance in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam121.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A grilled meat vendor sells food to people going into a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam120.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: People buy tickets at the box office for the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe before a show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam119.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Thai soldiers pat down people going into a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. Security is usually tight at the shows because drunken brawls sometimes break out towards the end of the night. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam118.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: The stage of the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe during a performance in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam117.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  The Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe performs in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam116.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  The Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe performs in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam115.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   Spectators dance during a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.               PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam114.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   Spectators dance during a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.               PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam113.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  The Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe performs in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam112.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  The Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe performs in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam111.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  The Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe performs in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam110.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  The Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe performs in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam109.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  The Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe performs in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam108.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A spectator at a Mor Lam show bows his head during the Thai King's Anthem at the start of the show. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam107.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   Spectators dance during a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.               PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam106.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   Spectators dance during a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.               PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam105.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   Spectators dance during a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.               PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam104.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   Spectators dance during a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.               PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam103.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   Spectators dance during a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.               PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam102.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A performer with the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe greets a fan during a performance in Bangkok. Although the show is scripted, performers leave their place in the show to go down and greet fans throughout the show. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.                PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam101.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A performer with the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe greets a fan during a performance in Bangkok. Although the show is scripted, performers leave their place in the show to go down and greet fans throughout the show. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.               PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam100.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   Spectators dance during a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.               PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam099.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Spectators at a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam098.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  The Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe performs in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam097.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A performer with the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe  puts on his costume before a show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam096.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Performers with the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe wait in the wings to go onstage during a performance in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.               PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam095.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A performer who plays a ghose in the Prathom Bunteung Silp more lam troupe climbs the stairs to the stage during a performance in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam094.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A fan takes a picture of a perfomer of the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe backstage during a performance in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam093.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A member of the cast of the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe puts on her nail polish before a performance in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam092.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A member of the cast of the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe puts on her nail polish before a performance in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam091.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Performers and members of the crew of the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe pray before a performance in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.                   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam090.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Performers and members of the crew of the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe pray before a performance in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.                   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam089.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A cast member of the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe picks up her feathered headdress before a performance in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam088.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A cast member of the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe picks up her feathered headdress before a performance in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam087.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A cast member of the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe picks up her feathered headdress before a performance in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam086.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A cast member of the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe puts on his makeup backstage during a performance in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam085.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A member of the crew of the Prathom Bunteung Silp troupe takes a nap during a performance in Bangkok. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the largest Mor Lam troupes in Thailand and travels from town to town putting on four hour shows.  Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam084.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Cast members of the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe put on their makeup before a performance in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam083.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Cast members of the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe put on their makeup before a performance in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam082.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A cast member of the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe puts on his makeup backstage during a performance in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam081.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A member of the Prathom Bunteung Silp backstage during a performance in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam080.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Members of the crew of the Prathom Bunteung Silp troupe nap during a performance in Bangkok. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the largest Mor Lam troupes in Thailand and travels from town to town putting on four hour shows.  Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam079.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A member of the cast of the Prathom Bunteung Silp troupe relaxes before going on stage during a performance in Bangkok. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the largest Mor Lam troupes in Thailand and travels from town to town putting on four hour shows.  Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam078.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Traditional Thai "Khon Masks" at a shrine performers pray at before going on stage with the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.                   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam077.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A member of the crew of the Prathom Bunteung Silp troupe takes a nap during a performance in Bangkok. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the largest Mor Lam troupes in Thailand and travels from town to town putting on four hour shows.  Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam076.jpg
  • 23 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A performer with the Prathom Bunteung Silp troupe gets her costume on one of the troupe's buses. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the largest Mor Lam troupes in Thailand and travels from town to town putting on four hour shows. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.              PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam075.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Sailors with the Royal Thai Navy provide security at a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. There is usually a lot of drinking at the shows and brawls frequently break out at the end of the night. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam074.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Sailors with the Royal Thai Navy provide security at a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. There is usually a lot of drinking at the shows and brawls frequently break out at the end of the night. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam073.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A performer with the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe poses for a photo with a fan during a performance in Bangkok. Although the show is scripted, performers leave their place in the show to go down and greet fans throughout the show. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam072.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A performer with the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe greets a fan during a performance in Bangkok. Although the show is scripted, performers leave their place in the show to go down and greet fans throughout the show. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam071.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A performer with the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe greets a fan during a performance in Bangkok. Although the show is scripted, performers leave their place in the show to go down and greet fans throughout the show. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam070.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A performer with the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe greets a fan during a performance in Bangkok. Although the show is scripted, performers leave their place in the show to go down and greet fans throughout the show. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam069.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Spectators dance during a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam068.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Spectators dance during a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam067.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Spectators dance during a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam066.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A spectator at a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show uses her smart phone to photograph a performer.  Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam065.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A spectator at a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show carries 100Baht (roughly $3.30 US) to the stage to tip a performer.  Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam064.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Spectators dance during a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam063.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A couple on a date use their smart phones at a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam062.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A dried squid vendor, a sort of Thai seafood jerky, squeezes past a couple on a date at a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam061.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Spectators dance during a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam060.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Spectators dance during a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam059.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Spectators dance during a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam058.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Spectators dance during a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam057.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Spectators dance during a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam056.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Spectators dance during a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam055.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: The Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe performs in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam054.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A percussionist with the Prathom Bunteung Silp plays during a show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam053.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A percussionist with the Prathom Bunteung Silp plays during a show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam052.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A percussionist with the Prathom Bunteung Silp plays during a show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam051.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: The Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe performs in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam050.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: The Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe performs in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam049.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: The Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe performs in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam048.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: The Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe performs in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam047.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A performer with the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe waits for his cue to go onstage during a performance in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam046.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: The Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe performs in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam045.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Performers with the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe wait in the wings to go onstage during a performance in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.       PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam044.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Performers with the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe climb the stairs to the wings before going onstage during a performance in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam043.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Performers with the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe climb the stairs to the wings before going onstage during a performance in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam042.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Performers with the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe wait in the wings to go onstage during a performance in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam041.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Performers with the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe wait in the wings to go onstage during a performance in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam040.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Spectators at a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam039.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Spectators at a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam038.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A dancer with the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe extends his hands during a performance in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam037.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: The Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe performs in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam036.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: The Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe performs in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam035.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A performer with the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe greets a fan during a performance in Bangkok. Although the show is scripted, performers leave their place in the show to go down and greet fans throughout the show. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam034.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A performer with the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe greets a fan during a performance in Bangkok. Although the show is scripted, performers leave their place in the show to go down and greet fans throughout the show. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam033.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A performer with the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe greets a fan during a performance in Bangkok. Although the show is scripted, performers leave their place in the show to go down and greet fans throughout the show. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam032.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: The opening of the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam031.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A performer with the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe greets fans during a performance in Bangkok. Although the show is scripted, performers leave their place in the show to go down and greet fans throughout the show. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam030.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Spectators at a Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam029.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: The Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe performs in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam028.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: The Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe performs in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam027.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A performer with the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe puts on his costume before a show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam026.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A performer with the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe puts on his costume before a show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam025.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A performer with the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe puts on his costume before a show in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam024.jpg
  • 22 NOVEMBER 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Members of the crew with the Prathom Bunteung Silp mor lam troupe watch TV backstage during a performance in Bangkok. Mor Lam is a traditional Lao form of song in Laos and Isan (northeast Thailand). It is sometimes compared to American country music, song usually revolve around unrequited love, mor lam and the complexities of rural life. Mor Lam shows are an important part of festivals and fairs in rural Thailand. Mor lam has become very popular in Isan migrant communities in Bangkok. Once performed by bands and singers, live performances are now spectacles, involving several singers, a dance troupe and comedians. The dancers (or hang khreuang) in particular often wear fancy costumes, and singers go through several costume changes in the course of a performance. Prathom Bunteung Silp is one of the best known Mor Lam troupes in Thailand with more than 250 performers and a total crew of almost 300 people. The troupe has been performing for more 55 years. It forms every August and performs through June then breaks for the rainy season.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    MorLam023.jpg
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Jack Kurtz, Photojournalist & Travel Photographer

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