The Concept and Value in Creating the “Hua Mulan Against the Enemy” Performance

Abstract

This academic article examines the concepts and values in the creation of “Hua Mulan Against the Enemy,” created by Professor Noppawan Chantharaksa, highly skilled dancer in the Office of Performing Arts, Fine Arts Department, and Mr. Phobtham Chaiwijit. The groundbreaking work draws inspiration from the story of the Chinese historical character Mulan, particularly in its content, characters, and literary elements.

The study draws on in-depth interviews and Chinese historical literature, including the story of Mulan and the Thai bathing dance tradition. The study of the concept of creative value of the Hua Mulan against the enemy series is a creation based on the concept of “Traditional > Mixed Traditional > New Thinking”, adhering to the principles of traditional Thai dance. Before going into battle, the character bathes to purify the body to purify one’s body to bring good fortune. This creates interest in the performance style, dance movements, use of weapons, costume colors, and musical melodies. The vocal music was composed/arranged by Ajarn Chaiya Tangmisri, a National Artist in Performing Arts (Thai Music) in B.E. 2566 (2023). This inventive dance series maintains the essence of traditional royal dance, considering the dimensions of “conservation” and “creation” to adapt to the era, creating interest while maintaining traditional values ​​in a balanced manner.