Choreography of I-San Dance of Thongchan Sungkhamanee

Abstract

     The research aims to study the biography of Mr. Thongchan Sungkhamanee and to examine the choreography of the I-san dances which were created by him, then to analyze the unique styles of the I-san
dances. The research used mix-qualitative research methods such as documentary research, fieldwork, observation, and interview. The famous I-san dances included Fon Konsawan, Fon Tangwai, and Seng Bungfia, which were collected for the data analysis. The study found that Mr. Thongchan Sangkhamanee (1939-2002) was a well-known artist and played an important role in the foundation of Isan dance creation for the College of Dramatic Arts in the Northeast (RoiEt College of Dramatic Arts, Kalasin College of Dramatic Arts, and Nakhon Ratchasima College of Dramatic Arts), a total of 34 sets. The performances consist of local traditions, folk tales, ways of life, and communities and tribes. In terms of Isan dance identity of Mr. Thongchan Sangkhamanee, he was found that his identity of dance had a unique “Male-Female” dance style, such as “Bending the whole body, move the whole hand, and turn up the back of the curve”. Most of them were created with applying from “the traditional dances” that exist in the way of life of the Isan villagers.