Summary of Traditional Performing Arts (Key Points)

Origin: western Mongolia, Altai mountains.
Definition: throat singing with a continuous drone plus a melody of harmonics.
Etymology: Khöömei means pharynx; associated with birds and shamanic practices.
Main styles: kharkhiraa (deep Khöömei) and isgeree Khöömei (whistled Khöömei).
Techniques: multiple tones via unique vocal use; strong breath control; pitch modulation through tongue position, lip tension, and throat shape.
Style variation: khoomei, sygyt, kargyraa.
Cultural context: rooted in Mongolian nomadic life; performed at social gatherings, festivals, and spiritual ceremonies for storytelling and celebration.

Definition: Khon is the masked dance drama of Thailand, blending musical, vocal, literary, dance, ritual, and handicraft elements.
Content: depicts Rama, the hero and incarnation of Vishnu, delivering order and justice.
Costume: elaborate costumes with intricate designs and shimmering fabrics.
Masks: skilled mask-making with delicate features and vibrant colors for gods, demons, and mythical creatures.
Choreography: graceful, precise movements conveying emotions and stories; includes battles of good vs. evil.
Mudras: hand gestures communicate specific meanings.
Facial expressions: convey characters' inner thoughts and feelings.

Definition: theatre using colorful silhouette figures made from leather or paper, with music and singing.
Puppet making: crafting puppets from thin leather into characters and animals.
Shadow play: bright lights behind puppets cast shadows on a screen.
Puppet manipulation: rods and strings move the puppets to act, fight, and tell stories.
Voices and music: voices for characters; accompaniment by traditional instruments like drums and flutes.
Storytelling: narrators guide the story as puppeteers manipulate the figures.

Stage tricks: features like hidden doors and spinning floors for dynamic scenes.
Singing and music: live vocal performances and instrumental accompaniment.
Costumes and props: ornate costumes and props (e.g., swords, fans) to enhance the production.

Definition: traditional Japanese popular drama with singing and dancing, performed in a highly stylized manner.
History: a major Japanese theatrical form for four centuries; fusion of music, dance, mime, and spectacular staging/costuming.
Etymology: ka (song); bu (dance); ki (skill).
Acting styles: big movements and expressive facial expressions.
Makeup: distinctive bright colors and patterns to define characters.
Male actors playing female roles: young male actors (onnagata) portray女 characters using specialized techniques to imitate femininity.