Bangkok. 11th October 2008.

Chalerm Krung Royal Theatre.

This theatre was built in 1932 as part of the celebrations of the 150th anniversary of Bangkok / Rattanakosin Island being the capital of the nation..

The theatre was the first in South Eeast Asia to boast air-conditioning which made it the most modern theatre of its era.

The first play was performed on the second of July, 1933 - in front of King Prajadhipok (Rama VII) who was a fan of films and movies having been educated in Europe.

The Sala Chalerm Krung was then been used mainly for film shows until it was closed for renovation in 1992.

The theatre re-opened in 1994 with the new interior work (unfortunately replacing the great art deco chairs) and touched up the exteriors.

The theatre is now used for live performances like Thai classical play - usually reenacting the Khon dances around the Ramayana epic) which the troupe is practising above.

It has been renamed as "Chalerm Krung Royal Theatre"

This picture sits in a set -
Chalerm Krung Royal Theatre.