THE ANALYSIS OF DANCE POSTURES IN CROWNING OF NORAH HEADDRESS CEREMONY

Abstract

This research objectives were to study (1) the belief system attached to the ritualistic Norah Rong Kru performance, crowning of Norah headdress ceremony. (2) to examine the procedures of Norah crowning headdress ceremony (3) to analyze the dance sequences involved (Maebot Norah). This thesis focused on the belief system, various relevant components, sequences, verses, melody, and gestures in the Norah initiation ceremony that were recognized by people in Phatthalung Province. The research was conducted by studying the academic literatures, related research articles. Interviews with the experts in the rituals of Norah and experience in Norah crowning ceremony. The experts consultation was held to review the findings. The research results indicated that Norah Rong Kru was built on the basis of the faculty of Norah lineage to pay homage to Kru Mor Norah for the faith in superstition, spells to do and protect, occult and inheritance. Crowning of Nurah headdress ceremony is meant to pass on the Norah knowledge and performing skill from Norah teacher-performers to the next generation. The ceremony is mostly held three days and two nights. The rituals stages are slightly different in both of the same Norah family lines and another family line. The main dance sequence which is part of the ceremony consist of Bot Kru Sorn, Bot Sorn Rum, and Bot Prathom. Norah dance performance demand high individual skills and passed on from generation to generation. The sequences also evolve as new gestures are created and added to each family line.