Faun Su Kwan Khao Khun Lan : Development from Boon Khun Lan Prasat Ruang Khao

Abstract

This article aims to 1. present historical background and characteristics of Boonkhoon Lan Prasat Ruang Khao tradition in Kalasin province and 2. create the Fon Su Khwan Khao Khoon Lan, a folk-dance performance Boonkhoon Lan Prasat Ruang Khao of Kalasin held at Sawatwan Wanaram temple, Nuea sub-district, Kalasin depicts the belief in Pra Mae Posob. The castle (Prasat), built by million ears of rice, was developed into 3 designs: (1) a stupa design; (2) an inverted bell design; and a cruciform design. Nowadays, the construction of Prasat Ruang Khao, with the cruciform 20-meter-tall design, relies on one million ears of rice which became the inspiration for creating Fon Su Khwan Khao Khoon Lan. The creative process consists of 1) studying concepts and theories of choreography, creation, costume design, and music composition; 2) designing music, dance and costumes 3) following experts’ comments and advice and 4) publishing the dance performance. The dance performing with a local northeastern music band (Ponglang music band in Isan) can be divided into 3 sessions. The first session demonstrates the belief in rain-asking ritual and Pheaya Thaen or holy spirits. The second session depicts farming, the lifestyle of North-eastern people. The third session portrays the worship of ears of rice and the procedure for decorating Prasat Ruang Khao. The dance performance includes 14-line formations. Female dancers wear traditional Isan costume, long sleeves with sabai cloth covering the breasts and hanging loose behind the shoulders and a long tube skirt, with silver ornaments. The dance performance is composed of 29 main dance steps and 12 female dancers, depending on appropriateness. It can be performed in Boonkhoon Lan Prasat Ruang Khao tradition or any other suitable events.