THE PROCESS OF CREATING A FOLK MUSICAL: CHOO CHOK “KONG KWIAN KUM KWIAN”

Abstract

This article aims to study the process of creating the Isaan folk song Chuchok "Gong Kwian Kam Kwian." Data were collected through interviews and academic documents, which were then used to analyze the creative work. The results of the study revealed that the process of creating the Isaan folk song *Chuchok* "Gong Kwian Kam Kwian" is based on the belief and faith in Phra Maha Vessantara, a Jataka story that holds significance for the Isaan people. The song integrates Isaan folk performing arts in the form of a musical performance. The melody and singing style are performed in the local language, with the show format combining singing and dialogue, resembling   a drama. Isaan folk music bands, along with international music and electronic music, are used to enhance the performance. The show is divided into four acts: Act One: Grief, Act Two: Enchantment, Act Three: Maze, Act Four: Atonement for Karma. The elements of the play are written with the distinctive prosody of the Isaan dialect. Both male and female actors must be able to sing and speak with an Isaan accent. The choreography for Isaan folk dance combines traditional Thai dance styles with contemporary dance movements. The costumes reflect the attire of the Brahmin caste and monks. The knowledge gained from the creation includes: 1) The integration of performing arts into a new form of drama and musical theater, consisting of: (1) A Mor Lam performance format combined with stage play (2) Isaan folk singing and rapping styles (3) Four diverse styles of music: *Mor Lam*, Isaan sermon, Isaan country music, and traditional Thai songs. 2) The benefits of developing ethical learning for the new generation. 3) Guidelines for promoting the economy through arts and culture.