The Lao folk idiom also has its own musical theatre, based on the măw lám tradition. Măw lám is difficult to translate but roughly means 'master of verse'. Led by one or more vocalists, performances always feature a witty, topical combination of talking and singing that ranges across themes as di­verse as politics and sex. Very colloquial, even bawdy, language is employed. This is one art form that has always bypassed government censors and it continues to provide an important outlet for grass-roots expression.

Diverse other instruments, including electric guitar, electric bass and drums, may supplement the basic kháen /vocalist ensemble. Versions that appear on Lao national television are usually much watered down to suit 'national development'.

There are several different types of măw lám, depending on the number of singers and the region the style hails from. Măw lám khuu (couple măw lám), for example, features a man and woman who engage in flirtation and verbal repartee. Măw lám jót (duelling măw lám) has two perform­ers of the same gender who 'duel' by answering questions or finishing an incomplete story issued as a challenge - not unlike free-style rap.

Northern Lao kháen -based folk music is usually referred to as kháp rather than lám. Authentic live maw lam can be heard at temple fairs and on Lao radio. CDs can be purchased in larger towns and cities.