Isan Actors’ Reflection on the Use of Isan Language in Creative Practice of Text-based Theatre - Bus Stop.

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Tanatchaporn Kittikong

Abstract

This research article is part of the research project: ‘Embodied Isan Tone and Approaches to Performance: Reflecting on ‘Acting’ Through (Northeastern Thai) Isan Actors on Creation of Isan Contemporary Theatre and Performance’ aims to find creative approaches through actors and performers towards contemporary Isan theatre and performance. It intends to analyze experiences of young Isan actors/performers working with Western approach in theatre and performance. This article presents one of its research results from one of its creative processes using a text based as approach. The chosen play - the Bus Stop, written by Gao Xing Jian, was adapted into Isan context and Isan Language by Isan artists and actors. The analysis of their performance focuses on the influence of Isan language on their acting approaches. The results suggest that character, energy and sincerity of Isan actors were changed due to the sound of Isan language, at the same time, it allows the personal approach in creating character, situations living and the style of acting of Isan actors.

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References

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