Dancers bring smiles, not tears, to colleague’s funeral

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A Bang Saray dance troupe brought talent and smiles, instead of tears, to the funeral of their friend and colleague, who made the performance her last request before dying.

More than 1,000 people turned out for the July 7 cremation of Wanna Kethap, 54, at Bang Saray Kongkaram Temple. The former member of the Pradooban dance crew passed away July 3.

The funeral was unlike most, as the atmosphere was lively and full of entertainment instead of tears. A baker’s dozen troupe dancers turned up in traditional costumes and put on a well-received performance.

Wanna Kethap’s (inset) last request was to have her friends and fellow dancers perform at her funeral.Wanna Kethap’s (inset) last request was to have her friends and fellow dancers perform at her funeral.

All the dancers were about the same age as the deceased, but they put on an energy-packed show. For the guests, it was unexpected, but was actually a request of Wanna’s, who was once a very well-known dancer.

Choreographer Somsong Kongsan, 57, said that it is very sad to lose a friend who shared some very good moments together.

Everyone knew when she danced and she was talented and will be missed, Somsong said.

Her last request was to have all of her co-dancers come and dance at her funeral.