Tumen Ekh Ensemble Performance

Overview

The Tumen Ekh Ensemble presents nightly folk performances at the National Academic Drama Theatre, showcasing Mongolia's rich performing arts traditions. The 75-minute show features throat singing (khöömii), horsehead fiddle (morin khuur), contortionism, and traditional dance.

Highlights

• Throat singing (khöömii): The mesmerising overtone vocal technique unique to Central Asian nomadic cultures — a UNESCO Intangible Heritage.
• Contortionism: Mongolian contortion is a centuries-old circus art; performers demonstrate extraordinary flexibility.
• Horsehead fiddle (morin khuur): The national instrument of Mongolia, producing a haunting, resonant sound.

History

Founded in the early 1990s after Mongolia's democratic revolution, Tumen Ekh was created to preserve and showcase traditional Mongolian performing arts for both local and international audiences. It has become the most popular cultural performance for visitors to Ulaanbaatar.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Shows typically run at 6 pm daily during summer — book tickets through your hotel or at the box office.
• Tip 2: Arrive 15 minutes early for a good seat — middle rows have the best sightlines.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.