From Paris to Bangkok, “Khon by Pichet Klunchun” is back.

PLUS SEVEN June 12, 2022June 12, 2022 Bangkok, Culture, Dance, Khon, Pichet Klunchun, Thai, Thailand

After a six-month delay in the pandemic, Khon by Pichet Klunchun Dance Company revived at ChangChui, Bangkok.

The Khon or Thai mask dance is one of the most famous traditional and controversial dances in Thailand, but Khon dance at the Pichet Klunchun Dance Company is not about ‘classical Thai dance’. The owner and choreographer, Pichet Klunchun, defies the norm and integrates this orthodox dance with contemporary style to present a different version of Khon.

According to its unique Khon performance, the company received an invitation from the musée du quai Branly in Paris, and organized an event ‘Le combat de Rama et de Todsakan (The Fight between Rama and Todsakan)’ in December 2021. After an international tour, the show returned to Thailand and was supposed to hold an event in the first half of 2022, but postponed because of the new surge of COVID-19.

Photographer: Varuth Pongsapipatt
Writer: Jamas Kositvichaya

The member of Khon by Pichet Klunchun wears a character mask, after halted the show for over 6 months
A week before the show, Pichet Klunchun, owner of the academy, gave an ideal overview to crews at the Chang Theater (dance and performing arts).
“I don’t know about other performance academics, but my wish is that you (members) have to show me your maximum potential” Pichet said.
Pichet Klunchun’s fellow stretched their bodies whilst taking a break from rehearsals at the Chang Theater, Pracha Uthit area.
In general, the preparation and dressing takes a lot of time because khon costumes are customized and have complicated patterns.
Before the show begins, masks (performance heads) was placed on a table alongside the stage.
Khon actor has held his role mask, Todsakan, before performing on the stage for the first 2022 show in Thailand.
The performers walked to the stage at Chang Chui. This place is convenient for transportation and located in residential areas, which has attracted many Bangkokians and Nonthaburians nearby.
Khon performers, who acted as Rama, danced on stage.
The traditional mixed with acrobatic dance style is the signature show of Khon by Pichet Klunchun. The choreography is designed to show the potential of dancers and impress the audience.
Actors who are not performing wait at the ringside. They had to inspect the reaction of the audience and learn the techniques of their colleagues, including taking a rest before taking actions.
The last act ended with a war scene between Rama and Giant. Every gesture of each character is well designed with great passion, before leaving the stage with applause.