Garavek Show: Traditional Storytelling – Luang Prabang, Laos
Thousands of travelers come to Luang Prabang each year. They climb Mount Phousi, have a drink along the Mekong River and pass by the former Royal Palace. But many of them leave without knowing that most of Luang Prabang’s famous sites have their own folklore, and each name has a hidden story. Garavek show is the right opportunity for visitors to learn these stories in English.
Located right in the center of the old city, the venue for Garavek show is a small theater, serving around 30 audiences in an intimate, traditional atmosphere. This enchanting two-man show comprises an old man dressed in tribalwear playing khene (a handmade bamboo mouth organ) alongside an animated storyteller (in English) recalling local Laos folktales and legends. The rustic and authentic feeling is reinforced by the absence of microphones and the presence of the only set, an elaborate painting behind the performers. The painting, commissioned from the same artist who restored Wat Xieng Thong, is reminiscent of a temple wall and allows the audience to look up and recognize images from the stories that they are hearing throughout the show.
Every evening, from 6.30-7.30, visit the theater and get your imagination on a flight of fancy with delightful narratives and do not forget to book ahead to avoid disappointment.
