Nang Yai is an ancient Thai shadow puppet theatre where leather puppets are manipulated behind a screen to depict scenes from the Ramakien epic. Traditionally performed with a live orchestra during festive seasons, Nang Yai is a rare and captivating art form that continues to be preserved and revived.

In the Ramakien, the monkey army plays a critical role in Phra Ram’s (Rama) quest to rescue his wife, Sida, (Sita) from the demon king Thotsakan (Ravana). They are led by the valiant Hanuman, Phra Ram’s trusted general who discovers the hidden location of Sita’s imprisonment on Lanka. His incredible strength and agility allowed him sneak past Thotsakan’s defenses and gather intel about the enemy forces, guiding the strategy for the rescue. Sugriva, the rightful Monkey King used his diplomatic skills to rally other monkey clans to support Phra Ram’s quest, greatly expanding the monkey army. The size and ferocity of the monkey army instill fear and chaos in the demon troops, for their unconventional warfare tactics also greatly disrupted the enemy’s defenses and weakened them in the process. In the final war, the monkeys were troops that engaged in fierce combat and tended to their wounded, ultimately, it was their unwavering loyalty to Phra Ram’s cause and also playful, enthusiastic spirit that kept the army motivated and hopeful, throughout the long and arduous journey.