One dance to cover 7 human rights issues

13 Sept 17:46 Key points summarised by AI

Acclaimed choreographer Pichet Klunchun created "7," a contemporary dance performance, to mark the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by addressing seven complex human rights issues.
Pichet tackled the challenge of portraying diverse human rights treaties through dance, expanding his company and employing symbolic representations like birds for indigenous rights.
The show explores the realities of marginalized groups, including the homeless and disabled, by translating their unique movements and struggles into artistic expression, featuring Pichet in a scene about homelessness.
A notable segment reimagines female characters from the Ramakien—Sida, Benjakai, and Sammanakka—protesting their historical injustices to powerfully highlight women's rights.
Pichet's directorial vision aims to engage audiences intellectually, using dance as a journey to broaden understanding of human rights rather than a literal narrative.

The Buddha comes home

20 Oct 15:38 Key points summarised by AI

Chong Para is an annual three-day festival in Mae Hong Son, Thailand, where the Shan people celebrate the Buddha's mythical return from Tavatimsa heaven, marking the end of Buddhist Lent.
Families construct intricate "Chong Para" miniature palaces, decorated with colorful paper and ornaments, as an act of faith and a means of preserving traditional Shan craftsmanship across generations.
The festival transforms the quiet mountain town with vibrant folk music, traditional Shan bird dances, martial arts performances, and lively processions, immersing visitors in local culture.
It offers a unique glimpse into the living Shan traditions of Mae Hong Son, distinct from other northern Thai regions, fostering community bonds and cultural transmission.