Stag and Hound

The dance-drama of the Stag and Hounds is a very well known operatic performance combining a humourous play and cham dance which is performed in most major festivals in Bhutan. It is also known as Acho Pento and tells the story of how hunter Gyonpo Dorje is converted by the saint Milarepa to non-violence and religion after he encountered the saint on his hunting trip. Despite the sombre religious message, the play is full pranks and jokes played by the Phento character and atsara clowns to entertain the crowd.