Fon Salawan

Creator:วิทยาลัยนาฏศิลปร้อยเอ็ด

"Fon Salawan" by the Roi Et College of Dramatic Arts is a traditional Isan folk dance. Faculty members conducted field research in the Salavan province of the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) to study the original singing and dancing styles. They subsequently adapted the choreography to be accompanied by a Ponglang ensemble while flawlessly preserving its authentic identity. Originally an entertainment art of the lowland Lao people, "Lam Salawan" features joyful and free-spirited movements guided by specific lyrical commands, such as "Salawan Tia Long" (Salawan get low). This interactive element earned it the nickname "Lam Maha Amnat" (The Authoritative Dance), as all performers must obey the singer's instructions. The graceful choreography playfully mimics nature and is accompanied by the distinctive Salawan melody and Ponglang music. Dancers wear traditional Thai-Lao costumes, including long-sleeved blouses, diagonal breast cloths, long tube skirts, and floral hair adornments.