The Creation of Royal Khon Performance According to His Majesty King Rama VI’s Ramakien Literature: Jong Thanon

Abstract

This research aim is mainly to study the creation of Khon performance following Ramakien: Jong Thanon, particularly the royal version of literary work by His Majesty King Vajiravudh (Rama VI) of Thailand. By both of qualitative and creative means, the research is done by literature review, expert interview, performance creation and discussion with academic dignitaries for qualifying examination.

The research findings represent 9 steps of Khon performance’s creation in a consecutive order, 1. Inspiration and performance conceptualisation 2. Creation of script in Khon performance 3. Selection of songs and musical instruments 4. Selection of Khon performers 5. Design of Khon postures and movements 6. Design of Khon Costumes 7. Design of makeup 8. Design of stage scenes and special effects 9. Presentation of the creative performance to academic dignitaries for qualifying examination. As a result of cultural reproduction, the story of Khon performance following the royal version of literary work by His Majesty King Rama VI, Ramakien: Jong Thanon is creatively tailored within time limit of one hour. The adapted performance is suitable for the context of current society and preservable for the introduction to Khon performance following the Ramakien version of His Majesty King Rama VI. Finally, this unique research is useful for the public and specially beneficial for those interested in creation of Khon performance under the concept of cultural reproduction.