About TDO
Thai dance and music were born in the royal courts of old Siam, carrying with them stories of devotion and grace. Every costume reflects that history. They are highly ornate and heavily embroidered especially the elaborate pointy headdresses which resemble the triangular shape of the ancient temple’s rooftop architecture.
With our extensive experience in Thai classical performance, we’ve learned that tradition isn’t something to lock away. Here in Canada, we don’t just preserve it — we let it evolve, sharing the rhythm and spirit of Thailand in our own way, through every story we bring to the stage.
2026 Special
Celebrating 65 years of Thailand–Canada diplomatic relations, we honor a partnership that has grown steadily since its establishment on 8 November 1961. Built on friendship, mutual respect, and shared values, this enduring relationship has expanded across trade and investment, education, science, technology, and innovation.
As we celebrate this special anniversary, we also recognize the importance of people-to-people ties, which continue to strengthen understanding and bring our communities closer together for the future.
Meet the Director
The Dance Carries What Words Cannot
Founded in 1987 by Sukitja (Kai) Whitcomb, the Thai Dance Troupe of Ottawa has grown into one of Canada’s leading Thai performing arts groups. Under Kai’s direction, the troupe continues to create, teach, and share Thai classical and folk dance with audiences across generations. Over the years, hundreds of dancers have passed through its doors.
Beyond Ottawa, Kai has founded Thai dance troupes in Jakarta, New Delhi, Miami, Calgary, Montréal, and Vancouver, extending Thai cultural representation across continents. She also served as part of the choreography team for Michael Jackson’s World Tour with Cirque du Soleil, a testament to her international recognition and artistry.
Today, about twenty dedicated members continue to keep the tradition alive, often joined by the wider Thai-Canadian community for major cultural festivals and performances.
