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  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A Chinese opera performer gets into costume backstage before a performance in Bangkok. The small troupe travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217035.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A performer puts on her makeup before a Chinese opera performance in Bangkok. She's a member of a small troupe that travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217033.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A performer on stage during a Chinese opera performance at a small shrine in a residential part of Bangkok. The small troupe travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217030.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  People watch a Chinese opera performance at a small shrine in Bangkok. The small troupe travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217029.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A performer on stage during a Chinese opera performance at a small shrine in a residential part of Bangkok. The small troupe travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217028.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   A performer relaxes backstage before a Chinese opera performance in Bangkok. She's a member of a small troupe that travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217027.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A Chinese opera performer checks her makeup and costume in a mirror held up by another member of the troupe. The small troupe travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217026.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Chinese opera performers wait for the show to start during a performance in Bangkok. The small troupe travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217025.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Chinese opera performers wait for the show to start during a performance in Bangkok. The small troupe travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217024.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A Chinese opera performer gets help getting into her costume backstage before a performance in Bangkok. The small troupe travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217023.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A Chinese opera performer gets into costume backstage before a performance in Bangkok. The small troupe travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217022.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Members of the cast backstage before a Chinese opera performance in Bangkok. They're from a small troupe that travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217021.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   A performer relaxes backstage before a Chinese opera performance in Bangkok. He's a member of a small troupe that travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.   PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217017.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A performer puts on his makeup before a Chinese opera performance in Bangkok. He's a member of a small troupe that travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217016.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A performer puts on her makeup before a Chinese opera performance in Bangkok. She's a member of a small troupe that travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217015.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Performers puts on their makeup before a Chinese opera performance in Bangkok. They're with a small troupe that travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217014.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Performers puts on their makeup before a Chinese opera performance in Bangkok. They're with a small troupe that travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217012.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Performers puts on their makeup before a Chinese opera performance in Bangkok. They're with a small troupe that travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217011.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A performer puts on his makeup before a Chinese opera performance in Bangkok. He's a member of a small troupe that travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217009.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A performer puts on his makeup before a Chinese opera performance in Bangkok. He's a member of a small troupe that travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217008.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A performer puts on his makeup before a Chinese opera performance in Bangkok. He's a member of a small troupe that travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217007.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A performer puts on his makeup before a Chinese opera performance in Bangkok. He's a member of a small troupe that travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217006.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Performers puts on their makeup before a Chinese opera performance in Bangkok. They're with a small troupe that travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217005.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A performer puts on her makeup before a Chinese opera performance in Bangkok. She's a member of a small troupe that travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217002.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A Chinese opera performer gets into costume backstage before a performance in Bangkok. The small troupe travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217034.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A performer puts on his makeup before a Chinese opera performance in Bangkok. He's a member of a small troupe that travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217032.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A performer relaxes backstage before a Chinese opera performance in Bangkok. She's a member of a small troupe that travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217018.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A performer puts on her makeup before a Chinese opera performance in Bangkok. She's a member of a small troupe that travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217004.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A performer puts on her makeup before a Chinese opera performance in Bangkok. She's a member of a small troupe that travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217003.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Performers puts on their makeup before a Chinese opera performance in Bangkok. They're with a small troupe that travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217001.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe prays at a Chinese alter backstage before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom017.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe prays at a Chinese alter backstage before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom016.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Men in a small opera troupe chat while putting on their makeup before a performance in Bangkok. The small troupe travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217031.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Women in a small opera troupe chat while putting on their makeup before a performance in Bangkok. The small troupe travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217020.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: Women in a small opera troupe chat while putting on their makeup before a performance in Bangkok. The small troupe travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217019.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Women in a small opera troupe chat while putting on their makeup before a performance in Bangkok. The small troupe travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.    PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217013.jpg
  • 17 FEBRUARY 2016 - BANGKOK, THAILAND: A member of the crew of a small opera troupe prays before a performance at a shrine in a residential part of Bangkok. The small troupe travels from Chinese shrine to Chinese shrine performing for a few nights before going to another shrine. They spend about half the year touring in Thailand and the other half of the year touring in Malaysia. Members of the troupe are paid about 5,000 Thai Baht per month (about $140 US). Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called Ngiew. It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera0217010.jpg
  • 19 AUGUST 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A performer with the Lehigh Leng Kaitoung Opera troupe eats dinner in her mosquito net tent while she watches a Chinese opera on her computer before a performance at the Chaomae Thapthim Shrine, a small Chinese shrine in a working class neighborhood of Bangkok. The performance was for Ghost Month. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.        PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaGhostMonth082.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe performs in a Chinese shrine in the village of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences.  Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom060.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe performs in a Chinese shrine in the village of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences.  Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom059.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe gets into character before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom057.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe gets into character before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom056.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: Performers with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe relax backstage during a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom055.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe performs in a Chinese shrine in the village of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences.  Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom054.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: The audience watches the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe during a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom053.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe performs in a Chinese shrine in the village of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences.  Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom052.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe performs in a Chinese shrine in the village of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences.  Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom051.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe performs in a Chinese shrine in the village of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences.  Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom050.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe performs in a Chinese shrine in the village of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences.  Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom048.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe performs in a Chinese shrine in the village of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences.  Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom047.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: The audience watches the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe during a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom046.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe performs in a Chinese shrine in the village of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences.  Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom045.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: The audience watches the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe during a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom044.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: The audience watches the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe during a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom043.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: Performers with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe take the stage during a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom040.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: Performers with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe take the stage during a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom039.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe gets into character before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom038.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe gets into character before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom037.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe relaxes backstage during a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom036.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: Performers with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe relax backstage during a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom035.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe gets into character before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom034.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe gets into character before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom033.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe gets into character before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom031.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: Performers with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe relax backstage during a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom030.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe gets into character before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom029.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: Performers with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe relax backstage during a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom028.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe gets into character before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom026.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe gets into character before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom024.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe gets into character before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom023.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A musician with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe rehearses before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom021.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A child whose parents are opera performers plays with a tablet computer while his parents are on stage at a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom018.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: Performers with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe get into character before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom015.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe puts on his shoes before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom014.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe puts on his shoes before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom013.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe gets into character before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom009.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe gets into character before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom008.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe gets into character before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom007.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe gets into character before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom005.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe plays on his smart phone before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom004.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe walks her baby across the street before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom001.jpg
  • 27 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   A family of Chinese opera performers get ready to go on stage before a Chinese opera performance in the Talat Noi neighborhood of Bangkok's Chinatown. Chinese opera is a family endeavor and many times children grow up performing alongside their parents. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand and is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently its popularity has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok. They travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. The opera troupes are paid by the temple, usually $700 to $1000 a night.  PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaBangkok0427015.jpg
  • 27 APRIL 2013 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   A family of Chinese opera performers get ready to go on stage before a Chinese opera performance in the Talat Noi neighborhood of Bangkok's Chinatown. Chinese opera is a family endeavor and many times children grow up performing alongside their parents. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand and is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently its popularity has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok. They travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. The opera troupes are paid by the temple, usually $700 to $1000 a night.  PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaBangkok0427014.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe gets into character before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom058.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: Girls in the audience during a performance by the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom049.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: The audience watches the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe during a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom042.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: Performers with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe take the stage during a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom041.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe gets into character before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom032.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: Performers with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe relax backstage during a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom027.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe gets into character before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom025.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe gets into character before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom022.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe gets into character before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom020.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom006.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A performer with the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe relaxes in a hammock before a show in a Chinese shrine in the town of Bang Luang, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom002.jpg
  • 19 AUGUST 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  While the patron who sponsored the opera makes an offering, members of the Lehigh Leng Kaitoung Opera troupe pray in the shrine at the beginning of a performance at Chaomae Thapthim Shrine, a small Chinese shrine in a working class neighborhood of Bangkok. The performance was for Ghost Month. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.             PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaGhostMonth094.jpg
  • 19 AUGUST 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  A member of the Lehigh Leng Kaitoung Opera troupe paints the signboard announcing the name of the opera being performed at Chaomae Thapthim Shrine, a small Chinese shrine in a working class neighborhood of Bangkok. The performance was for Ghost Month. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holiday when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. Most of the Chinese operas from Bangkok travel to Malaysia for Ghost Month, leaving just a few to perform in Bangkok.        PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaGhostMonth066.jpg
  • 25 JANUARY 2014 - BANG LUANG, NAKHON PATHOM, THAILAND: A member of the Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe comforts her baby before a show. The Sing Tong Teochew opera troupe has been together for 60 years and travels through central Thailand and Bangkok performing for mostly ethnic Chinese audiences.  Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaNakhonPathom010.jpg
  • 26 NOVEMBER 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Chinese opera performers with their child backstage at a Chinese opera at the Chow Su Kong Shrine in the Talat Noi neighborhood of Bangkok. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are about 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holidays when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera1126031.jpg
  • 26 NOVEMBER 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Chinese opera performers with their child backstage at a Chinese opera at the Chow Su Kong Shrine in the Talat Noi neighborhood of Bangkok. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are about 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holidays when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera1126030.jpg
  • 26 NOVEMBER 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:  Chinese opera performers with their child backstage at a Chinese opera at the Chow Su Kong Shrine in the Talat Noi neighborhood of Bangkok. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their culture with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are about 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year and Chinese holidays when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage.     PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOpera1126029.jpg
  • 28 JANUARY 2014 - BANGKOK, THAILAND:   Chinese sheet music for the Tear Kia Ee Lye Heng opera troupe. They were performing for a business in the Min Buri district of Bangkok for the Lunar New Year, which this year is Jan 31. Chinese opera was once very popular in Thailand, where it is called “Ngiew.” It is usually performed in the Teochew language. Millions of Teochew speaking Chinese emigrated to Thailand (then Siam) in the 18th and 19th centuries and brought their cultural practices with them. Recently the popularity of ngiew has faded as people turn to performances of opera on DVD or movies. There are still as many 30 Chinese opera troupes left in Bangkok and its environs. They are especially busy during Chinese New Year when they travel from Chinese temple to Chinese temple performing on stages they put up in streets near the temple, sometimes sleeping on hammocks they sling under their stage. They are also frequently hired by Chinese owned businesses to perform as a form of merit making.  PHOTO BY JACK KURTZ
    ChineseOperaMinBuri0128034.jpg
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Jack Kurtz: Photojournalist & Travel Photographer

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