By Lawrence Davis
The Bangkok International Festival of Dance and Music 2025 is set to light up the city from 6 September to 15 October 2025. Held at the Thailand Cultural Centre, this six-week celebration of music, dance, and theatre brings together 14 performances from over 10 countries. It is Thailand’s largest annual performing arts event and a highlight on the Asian cultural calendar.
A Spectacular Opening Night
The festival opens on 6 September with “Mahabharata: 18 Days, Dusk of an Era” by Prabhat Arts International. This epic production blends classical Indian dance, live music, and visual storytelling to bring the legendary saga to life. It sets the tone for a program that is both ambitious and diverse.
World Class Artists and Rare Debuts
Opera lovers will witness a historic moment when Plácido Domingo performs in Thailand for the first time. Ballet enthusiasts can look forward to the National Ballet of China presenting the visually stunning “A Dream of Red Mansions”, inspired by one of China’s most celebrated novels. The festival also features European contemporary dance, large-scale orchestral concerts, and traditional Asian performances adapted for modern stages.
Why You Should Book Early
Tickets went on sale 14 June 2025 and popular shows are expected to sell out quickly. The venue is directly accessible from Thailand Cultural Centre MRT Station on the Blue Line, making it easy to reach from anywhere in Bangkok. Arriving early allows you to enjoy pre-show cultural displays, food stalls, and pop-up performances that add to the evening’s atmosphere.
For dining, the surrounding Ratchada area offers everything from casual Thai street food to upscale international restaurants — perfect for a pre-show meal or a late-night bite after the curtain falls.
Find more upcoming cultural events in Bangkok at Bangkok One News
Lawrence Davis is a Bangkok based lifestyle writer.