THE CREATION OF A DANCE TO STIMULATE INTEREST IN THE YOUNG GENERATION TOWARDS UBONRATCHATHANI’S CANDLE CRAFTS IN LENT CEREMONY

Abstract

This research article is a part of the doctoral thesis. The objective is to find a pattern of a creative dance performance to stimulate the interest of the new generation towards the candle crafts in Lent ceremony in Ubon Ratchathani. Qualitative research and creative research methods were used in this study. The tools used in the research included analysis of data from academic papers, digital media, observations and interviews with experts and those involved in the research. Data were then analyzed to find the pattern in the creation of the performance.

The results showed that the creation of the performance is the use of the phenomenon in the Candle Festival to create the performance in order to stimulate the interest of the new generation to create awareness and pride in the festival. They also showed the essence of faith in Buddhism and the creation of bond, unity, inheritance of candle sculptures, and religious tradition in the society. These reflects the cooperation of the new generation that presents a candle parade in the form of Tableaux vivants as represented in eight elements of the performance. 1) The show talks about the candle parade in the past, present, and future. 2) Post-modern dance styles and daily behaviors are used in the performance. (3) Actors are a group of volunteers of the new generation.                                               4) Minimalism is used in the costume design. 5) Isan folk songs from the Pong Lang band are played together with creative western music and newly-composed Molam melodies. 6) The performance is showed in an open space that is easily accessible to the new generation.                                       7) Natural light is used to simplify the presentation style. 8) For the equipment, the concept of minimalism, which emphasizes on the use of symbols, simplicity, economy, and understandability, is applied.