Sustaining Khon's Values and Aesthetics in Contemporary Productions

Abstract

This article provides guidance for contemporary audiences to watch and understand Khon performance. A Thai classical mask dance, Khon will be performed for some scenes of the Ramayana story. This story tells of the struggles of human against demon, as Rama battles Ravana. Historically, Khon performance represented Thai art and culture, symbolizing the goodness, honor, and power of the King. Nowadays, Khon is being modernized by adding laser light and digital sounds designed to attract contemporary audiences, but the addition of these elements has taken a toll on the form's values and aesthetics. In this paper, I discuss how Khon performance tells a story with a specific language and how the mannerisms of highest royalty influenced the acting, singing, and movements. I will also discuss how Thai audiences in the present have lost an appreciation for Khon's beauty and history. In closing, I present my own views on how to conserve the traditional dance form for the next generation.