Lao P.D.R.

Fon Bun Kin Chieng Lao Sung

Hmong New Year Dance

Reasons for selection

The Hmong New Year Dance has only recently become known to the wider Lao community. Previously little attention was paid to the cultures of minority groups.

Area where performed

Mountainous areas in Northern Laos: Xieng Khouang, Xaiyabouli, Luang Prabang and Phongsali.

Essential elements of the performing art

Music, Dance

Detailed explanation

This joyful dance is performed by the Hmong tribe during the Hmong new year festival called Bun Kin Chieng held in December. Young Hmong gather together and celebrate their customs and way of life at this festival. The performers wear costumes decorated with pure silver. The male dancers play a Hmong traditional wind instrument, while dancing. The female dancers dance and wave scarves. The dance is completed with a courting ritual with the male and female dancers throwing balls to each other. If one person drops the ball they must remove an item of jewelry or clothing.

Publication and textual documentation

not yet available

Audio documentation

not yet available

Visual documentation

not yet available

Institution/organisation involved in preservation and promotion

National School of Music and Dance

Data provider

Mr. Douangchampy Vouthisouk
Deputy-Director
National School of Music and Dance
Address: Vientiane, Lao P.D.R.