The Office of Performing Arts, Fine Arts Department, Ministry of Culture, in collaboration with the Suthirat Yoovidhya Foundation, presents an unprecedented cultural performance in Thailand combining two elements of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) heritage during a captivating Khon performance in Ayutthaya.
The story of Ramayana, Satchapali will be performed through “Khon – the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity (ICH)” performance against the backdrop of Wat Chaiwatthanaram in Ayutthaya, a significant ancient site in the Historic City of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The event is scheduled on Saturday-Sunday, 9-10 March 2024, starting at 17:30 Hrs. Enhanced by modern lighting, vibrant colours, and state-of-the-art sound techniques, the performance stage is designed to complement the venue in every aspect.
In addition, the Thai National Symphony Orchestra of the Office of Performing Arts, the Fine Arts Department, sets the stage with a compelling prelude, allowing visitors to enjoy the sunset ambience of this historic site.
Admission to the performance is complimentary; however, visitors are required to pay an entrance fee to enter Wat Chaiwatthanaram. The proceeds from this fee will contribute to the ongoing maintenance of this historic site.
The event is a testament to the commitment of the Fine Arts Department and the Suthirat Yoovidhya Foundation to preserve and promote Thailand’s rich cultural heritage, as well as inspiring pride and interest in history among Thai people while showcasing the nation’s culture to the international community.
It is part of the Fine Arts Department’s “Tonight at Wat Chaiwatthanaram” project launched in November 2023. Due to its positive response, the project has been extended until April 2024 as the “Ayutthaya Sundown 2024.”
Mr. Phanombut Chantarachot, Director-General of the Fine Arts Department, said “This initiative allows visitors to marvel at the ancient site beneath the evening sky while participating in artistic and cultural activities, including the captivating Khon performance, courtesy of the Office of Performing Arts in collaboration with the Suthirat Yoovidhya Foundation.
Regarded as a landmark cultural performance of Thailand, we would like to extend our gratitude to the Suthirat Yoovidhya Foundation for their recognition of the value of Thai arts and culture. Their commitment to preserving this invaluable heritage for future generations sets an exemplary model of public-private collaboration in advancing our national cultural identity, both locally and globally. We warmly invite you to join us in experiencing this significant spectacle together.”
Mr. Lasit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, Director of the Office of Performing Arts, said “The Office of Performing Arts places great emphasis on executing projects that bring cultural performances to regions across Thailand, directly engaging with the people and taking national theatre to the people.
Our approach involves crafting performances that neatly and invitingly convey stories, while seamlessly integrating modern technology to enrich the viewing experience.
Our goal is not only to delight our existing audience but also to reach out to the younger generation and people outside of Bangkok, providing them with the opportunity to watch cultural performances.
The “Satchapali” performance at Wat Chaiwatthanaram marks another significant chapter in the Ramayana saga that serves as a pivotal episode that unites key characters from the narrative as well as being great entertainment. We assure viewers that they will find immense joy in witnessing this captivating performance.”
Mr. Somkid Rujeepakorn, Committee and Secretary-General of the Suthirat Yoovidhya Foundation, said “The foundation was established over two decades ago to enhance the quality of life and foster sustainable positive change within Thai society.
One of our operational principles is the encourage and preservation of arts and culture, as they embody the identity of the Thai nation. Particularly, we are dedicated to ensuring that the younger generation has the opportunity to experience, learn, and participate in these invaluable traditions.
Over the years, we have collaborated closely with the Fine Arts Department on various initiatives, including projects focused on nurturing technical skills for the restoration of paintings and Thai sculptures, as well as educational programs aimed at immersing teachers in authentic historical and cultural contexts that inform curriculum development.
Our recent initiative, we have the honour of organizing the Khon performance which is a pinnacle of Thai performing arts that seamlessly merges multiple arts. With the collective efforts of numerous stakeholders, we aspire not only to leave a lasting impression on the audiences but also to contribute significantly to the preservation of Thai culture, recognized as an intangible cultural heritage, ensuring its continued glory for generations to come.”
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