ArtsFrom prehistoric oral epics to the latest movie from mongol kino the many arts of mongolia convey the flavor of nomadic life. Watching dancers in a ger or a professional ensemble on the stage of a theatre in Ulaan Baatar is reminder that Mongolia has evolved traditional and unique songs, music, dances, costumes, painting styles, sculptures, plays, film, crafts, carpets and textiles. One surprise about Ulaan Baatar is the number and quality, of cultural shows in the various theatres. The buildings themselves from the salmon pink walls with Greek columns of the opera and dance theatres to the bold copper Mongolian roof of the palace of Culture express the hybrid culture Mongolia has forged from all sides. Most Mongolians may be unable to afford to see their own circus and dance and opera troupes, but a major cultural renaissance is under way, as Mongolians rediscover what the. Soviets had repressed. If you want more information about the arts in Mongolia, contact the Mongolian, Green Horse Society (320054; PO box 128, Central Post Office, Ulaan Baatar), which is linked to other Green Horse societies in Europe.
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