The Identity in Fon Ngaen of Master Lamduan Suwannaphukham

Abstract

This article aims to study the identity of the Fon Ngaen, the traditional dance of Lamduan Suwannaphukham. The study received approval from a human research ethics board (approval Number W.85/2021). Documents, in-depth interviews, and observations were thoroughly analyzed using qualitative research methods.The primary dance postures have been preserved since the dance's inception, with additional moves introduced to enhance its traditional essence. The fundamental dance moves include the original Fon Ngaen or bending posture, passed down through generations, complemented by additional postures to begin the dance then often ending with         a Wai pose (hands are closed together to pay respect). The dance group led by Lamduan Suwannaphukham specified four melodies for their performances: 1) The melody of Lullaby for Nang Non, 2) the melody of Mae Mai Kom, 3) the melody of Mae Mai Khrua, and 4) the melody of Khmer Pak Tho (a central region melody). The Fon Ngaen dance may be performed alone with an instrumental music band or with singing which is called Kub Sor. However, the essence of the dance is that dancers must demonstrate unique flexibility by arching the body backward like a curved bridge pose; it is called "Ngaen." The skill of this flexible pose is used later for collecting prizes, such as banknotes, from an appreciative audience. The dancers must use their mouths to hold the banknotes given by members of the audience.