PATTERNS, PERFORMANCE ELEMENTS, AND ROLES OF CREATIVE THAI DRAMATIC ARTS IN THE 21st CENTURY
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Abstract
This study, entitled Patterns, Performance Elements, and Roles of Creative Thai Dramatic Arts in the 21st Century, forms part of a broader research project, Future Scenarios of Creative Thai Dramatic Arts in the 21st Century: Paradigms and Social Contexts. The study aims to analyze and synthesize the patterns, performance elements, and roles of creative Thai dramatic arts in the contemporary era. A mixed-methods research design was employed, integrating qualitative and quantitative approaches. The qualitative component utilized documentary research, examining published documents and video media related to creative Thai dramatic performances. A total of 196 works were collected and analyzed using content analysis to identify dominant performance patterns and characteristics. The quantitative component involved data classification, categorization, and frequency analysis, which were systematically synthesized and interpreted to explore relationships among variables and generate research conclusions.
The findings indicate that the predominant pattern of creative Thai dramatic arts in the 21st century is grounded in traditional folk performance conventions, reflecting the integration of cultural heritage and local wisdom into contemporary artistic expressions. In terms of performance elements, narrative content most frequently depicts aspects of everyday life, livelihoods, local wisdom, traditional practices, and community occupations. Performance styles primarily employ Thai classical dance vocabulary, traditional gesture language, and interpretative acting techniques. Musical accompaniment typically consists of newly composed instrumental music combined with folk musical traditions, often without vocal lyrics. Costumes predominantly reflect folk or commoner styles, while stage props are frequently newly created or designed to emulate natural forms. Performances generally involve both male and female performers.
Regarding its roles, creative Thai dramatic arts in the 21st century primarily function as a medium for cultural preservation and transmission. Beyond their entertainment value, these creative works also serve as a cultural bridge connecting Thailand’s cultural heritage with contemporary social contexts. The findings highlight the adaptive capacity of creative Thai dramatic arts to evolve within increasingly globalized cultural environments.
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