THE SAW TROUPE "DAO RUNG CHIANG MAI": HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT OF SAW PERFORMANCE

Abstract

         The study aims to explore the development of Saw (traditional singing performance of Northern Thailand), using the Saw troupe "Dao Rung Chiang Mai" as a case study. In conducting this study, the author employed the phenomenological method and conduct in-depth interviews with 5 people who share a relationship with the troupe. The author also collected data through relevant documents and observations. The result of the study revealed these two aspects: 1) The establishment of the troupe, and 2) The development of Saw in various aspects which are musical (sing with Pee Jum, Pee Jum and Sueng, western music style, and Karaoke), presentation (traditional way, perform as drama, and young performers), and performance space (on stage, recordings, performance tour, radio shows, and on the internet) Even though many things have changed, the troupe still preserves the traditional way along with adopting new performances to present together; which made them survive the new social norms.