KKU Ignites Cultural Passion with “Khon Mor Din Daeng”: A Spectacular Journey to Si Than Festival 2024

In a vibrant celebration of Thai culture, Khon Kaen University is set to captivate audiences with “Khon Mor Din Daeng,” [Khon is a traditional Thai masked dance-drama known for its elaborate costumes and stylized performances] a groundbreaking initiative aimed at nurturing Isaan youth in the art of Khon. This traditional Thai performance, renowned for its unique charm and rarity, has sparked immense interest, leading to sold-out shows and a cultural renaissance in the region.

Assist. Prof. Dr. Suksanti Waengwan, Assistant to the President for Art, Culture, and Creative Economy, is at the helm of this cultural revival. With a vision to bring Khon to the forefront in Khon Kaen, he aims to transform this central-region art form into a beloved tradition for the Isaan people. “Khon Mor Din Daeng” is not just a performance; it is a movement to make Khon accessible and relatable, much like how Som Tum [famous Isaan spicy papaya salad] adapts to different regions while retaining its essence.

The university’s initiative began with an enthusiastic response, attracting over 180 participants, from young children to parents, eager to learn the intricacies of Khon. Over four immersive days, participants delved into the world of Khon, guided by 25 expert instructors, learning roles such as the hero, heroine, demon, and monkey. This program not only fosters concentration and discipline but also strengthens family bonds as parents and children explore Thai culture together.

Assist. Prof. Dr. Suksanti emphasizes that beyond discipline, participants gain valuable acting skills, teamwork experience, and a deeper understanding of Thai traditions. These skills open doors to further education and even income opportunities through performances and related arts, empowering the youth to become cultural ambassadors.

The success of the first phase has paved the way for the “Khon Kaen Dramatic Arts Club,” ensuring the project’s continuation. With esteemed advisors like Assoc. Prof. Dr. Niyom Wongpongkham, Vice President for Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, and Mr. Worasak Worayos, Director of the Art and Cultural Center, will serve as a dynamic learning hub.

Looking ahead, the next phase of “Khon Mor Din Daeng” will commence in October 2024, welcoming 200 new participants for a five-week course. The highlight will be a debut performance on November 15, blending Royal Khon and Isaan drama in a mesmerizing tale of good versus evil and Naga King’s Worship performance, set against the vibrant backdrop of the Si Than Festival 2024, Khon Kaen University’s grand Loy Krathong

celebration.

Mr. Thanasap Lapuang, a first-year student in the Dramatic Arts program, expressed his excitement about joining the project to enhance his skills and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Meanwhile, Mr. Apisit Payakkul, also a first-year student, is eager to build on his Khon foundation, confident that the project will enrich his academic journey and provide opportunities to preserve Thai culture.

For those interested in the Khon Mor Din Daeng project, applicants must be students or the general public aged 7 and up, regardless of gender, with no prior Khon experience required. The course fee is 2,000 baht per person, and applications can be submitted at: [https://kku.world/biiv0](https://kku.world/biiv0) from October 5-11, 2024. For more information, contact Ms. Anusara Kamngam, Cultural Scholar at the Art and Cultural Center, Khon Kaen University, at 0991674664.

[Thai]

Scroll to Top