Thao Pha Daeng Song Khrueang: The Construction of Thai Performing Arts from Isaan Folk Literature

Abstract

This research aims to construct a Thai performing art from Isaan folk literature "Thao Pha Daeng Song Khrueang." This research is creative research with the data acquired from document analysis, textbook, research, and fieldwork data collection. Informants were purposively selected. Research tools included structured interviews, evaluation forms, and focus group discussions. Research findings are presented using descriptive analysis and illustrations. The research results indicate that "Thao Pha Daeng Song Khrueang" was inspired by an Isaan folk tale called Phadaeng Nang Ai. It was constructed as a traditional Thai performing art to depict Thao Pha Daeng's bathing and dressing. The performance is divided into three sections: 1) Song Sukon (anointing fragrance), 2) Song Khrueang (dressing), and 3) Song Acha (mounting the steed). The construction process involved three steps: 1) Preparation, 2) Implementation, and 3) Evaluation. The performance's elements and choreographic style follow the Lakhon Phanthang style. The dance movements were adapted from basic Thai classical dance gestures and newly created dance gestures, categorized into 15 main movements for the Long Song Song Khrueang (bathing and dressing) sequence and movements accompanying instrumental music.