THE STUDY OF DIRECTING SATIRIC COMEDY YOUR SISTER'S HUSBAND

Abstract

This research aims to study and synthesize the process of directing a dark comedy play, Once Upon a Time My Sister Had a Husband (or Your Sister's Husband) by Alfian Sa'at, in order to communicate the issue of unequal treatment of others. Additionally, it seeks to explore directorial techniques that can convey the main themes of the play, which originally reflects the Malay-Singaporean cultural society, and adapt it to reflect the experience of women in Thai society.   

The researcher began by reviewing relevant materials and developing a conceptual framework for experimentation. The findings indicate that in order to help the audience understand the message of the play through the presentation of dark comedy, three key elements must be addressed: 1) working with actors, 2) working with timing on stage, and 3) working with visuals on stage. The research concluded that by focusing on these three elements, the director was able to successfully adapt Once Upon a Time My Sister Had a Husband (or Your Sister's Husband) by Alfian Sa'at, using dark comedy to communicate the theme of unequal treatment of 'others' in human society, and to transform the original reflection of the Malay-Singaporean cultural context into a reflection of women's experiences in Thai society.