Elements of Characteristics of Talad in Thai Dance Drama

Abstract

Talad in Thai dance drama is an indicator of behavior that characterizes human emotion. While dance drama is the expression of human instinct to enjoy entertainment, Talad is the expression of human nature that is ready to show itself when conflicts arise. The research aimed to study the elements of characteristics of talad in Thai Dance Drama. This study was a qualitative research. Data were collected using documentation regarding dramas in Ayutthaya Period, Thonburi Period, and Rattanakosin Period as well as drama scripts provided by the Fine Arts Department in 4 types of Thai dance dramas: Khon, Lakhon Chatri, Lakhon Nok, and Lakhon Nai. Quantitative data were analyzed by using content analysis and descriptive analysis. The results showed that, Talad is an unrestrained expression of behavior through emotional, verbal, and non-verbal expression of a character. This characteristic can be found in every character; it realistically reflects human nature. There are 3 elements that characterize Talad characters in dance drama; 1) the primary element is the 5 types of character conflicts; 2) the secondary element is the character’s status, gender, and personality; and 3) the additional element is the atmosphere that incites Talad characteristic. Talad characteristic is something that exists in all human being, both nobles and commoners. It is usually confined by social etiquette that moderates social behaviors. If a circumstances or an event incites the emotion, namely, passion, greed, anger, and delusion, which is varied in degree depending on additional factors, resulting in emotional reactions and behavioral responses according to the nature of each individual. Therefore, when Talad characteristic is integrated into the personality, emotion, and feeling of the character, it will certainly make that character behave like human being, although they need to follow the performing convention of each type of drama strictly.