In addition to part of the classical drama and dance being developed from the popular Jataka story plays among the people, the other part is formed from the re-creation of the court dramas introduced to Myanmar from Siam in the 18th century. It is a performance form that combines poetry, music and dance. This dance in the court drama was later called "Siam Dance" and is an important part of modern Burmese classical dance. It is characterized by soft movements and bent joints; harmonious coordination of dance postures, expressions and rhythms; symmetrical shapes of hands and feet; no sudden pauses between movements, continuous, gentle and calm, elegant and gentle.
Myanmar folk dance is mainly based on various drums. There are Ruibo drums, long drums, brother drums (double drums), short drums, elephant foot drums, back drums and other drums; most of them are produced in farming activities and religious activities. In addition, dances showing various mythical beasts and idols are also popular among the people.
The dances of various ethnic groups in Myanmar have their own characteristics and have a broad mass base. During festive festivals, such as the Water Splashing Festival of the Bamar and Shan ethnic groups, in addition to performances by professional groups, mass singing and dancing competitions or celebratory performances are generally held in urban and rural areas. Another example is the Kachin people's Munao festival and the Karen people's New Year celebrations, where villagers have to sing and dance all night long.
After independence, successive governments of Myanmar have awarded outstanding dance artists the title of "Famous Artist". From 1952 to 1953, singing and dancing schools were established in Yangon and Mandalay, specializing in cultivating modern Burmese dance talents.