Lao P.D.R.

Fon Uay Phone

Well-wishing dance

Dancers offer flowers in the Fon Uay Phone.

Reasons for selection

This dance was performed in the Royal Court before 1975. After 1975 it was not performed regularly until the National School of Music and Dance incorporated it into its program. It is still undergoing revival.

Area where performed

Luang Prabang - origin
Vientiane - present

Essential elements of the performing art

Music, Dance

Detailed explanation

Fon Uay Phone was developed by the artists in the palace of the Lao Kingdom. It was founded many years ago and performed to show the good will of the King. Now it is a greeting, welcoming and wishing dance on the occasion of various festivals such as: Lao New Year, traditional festivals, birthday ceremony and performed for the honoured guests, who visit Laos. In this dance, flowers are bestrewn upon honoured guests as a symbol of good will. A Lao poem, which is sung as an accompaniment to the dance tells visitors that the greeting wishes come straight from the heart.

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.