Trigger word: likay costume, intricate embroidery
Likay (Thai: ลิเก, RTGS: like, pronounced [líʔ.kēː]) is a form of popular folk theatre from Central Thailand (not in Bangkok, where Teochew opera are folk theatre.[citation needed]). Its uniqueness is found in the combination of extravagant costumes with barely equipped stages and vaguely determined storylines, so that the performances depend mainly on the actors' skills of improvisation and the audiences' imagination.
Likay is famous for its flamboyant costumes. Heavy make-up, from the darkest black eyeliner to the brightest red lipstick, and colorful, glittering, fake jewels for both men and women are standard. Responsible for most of the outfitting themselves, the actors not only bring their costumes but also create their own masks. For men, the costume includes colorful or golden stuffed knickerbockers, long white socks, blouses and vests with excessive ornaments, glittering earrings, and plumed headbands. The women wear clothes in both modern and traditional fashions of shining silk and satin