As part of their world tour, the venerable monks of the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery will be visiting Ardross Hall on Friday 13 August to give a performance of music and dance.

The Tashi Lhunpo Monastery dates from the 15th century, and is the spiritual home of Buddhist monks who are now living in exile in Southern India. The monks of the Gelukpa, or Yellow Hat, order of Tibetan Buddhism are celebrated for their religious and artistic traditions. Eight of the monks, magnificently costumed, will perform a programme of dances and music which illustrates the full range and diversity of the astonishing culture of the sacred world of Tibetan Buddhism.

The programme will begin with a long life blessing and close with Prayers of Dedication for the environment, for health in mind and body and for the well-being of all in order to achieve universal spiritual harmony.

The monks introduce each of the dances which are performed with masks, hand gestures and the music of drums and cymbals and incorporate traditional stories and prayers.

This is an opportunity not to be missed. If you wish to see this amazing performance, phone Ardross hall on 01349 880591 and leave your name and the number of tickets required (£6 and £4, pay at the door) or just come along to the hall at 8:00 on Friday.

If there is enough interest, the monks can run a workshop at the hall in the afternoon. Please phone early to register so that this can be arranged.

Further fascinating information about and pictures of the monks, their monastery and the programme can be found at www.tashi-lhunpo.org.uk

The tour is supported by the Asian Music Circuit.