Concepts and creative elements of contemporary performing arts for cultural communication: The performance “Saranbanjai Chiang Mai Lanna”
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Abstract
This creative research aims to study and present cultural communication through the creative process of contemporary performing arts, specifically the project “Saranbanjai Chiang Mai Lanna.” It analyzes the role of performing arts in contemporary cultural communication, utilizing creative processes in performing arts combined with cultural communication concepts. This is achieved through five elements of contemporary performing arts: lyrics, actors, performance style, costumes, and sound.
The study found that contemporary performing arts can effectively serve as a medium for creating shared cultural meaning, particularly the use of poetic language in lyrics. These lyrics convey the identity and values of Chiang Mai through linguistic symbolism and imagery that evoke emotional responses from the audience. Performers effectively communicate this meaning through performance, costumes, and music using contemporary techniques.
This research indicates that traditional culture is not a limitation for creating contemporary art, as it utilizes cultural values coupled with communication designs that are relevant to the present context. Performing arts, as a tool for cultural communication and as intellectual capital, can be further developed to foster local identity, cultural tourism, and a sustainable creative economy.
Highlights
1.This research demonstrates that contemporary performing arts can function more as a cultural communication tool than as mere aesthetic entertainment by using knowledge from local culture as a foundation for creation and benefit to society
2. The performance “Saranbanjai Chiang Mai Lanna” presents a contemporary interpretation of Chiang Mai Province, Thailand, through modern and engaging performance styles, music, and lyrics. Traditional cultural elements are used as the foundation for symbolic interpretation, presented in a new format accessible to audiences of all ages.
3. This research aims to create and contribute to the light, sound, and visual performance titled “Praise and Faith in the Guardian Spirit of Lanna, Doi Luang Chiang Dao,” in order to enhance local cultural tourism in Chiang Dao District, Chiang Mai Province.
4. This research integrates performing arts with cultural communication to promote tourism or be used in arts and cultural fields Studies highlight the role of performing arts as a tool for communication, fostering shared understanding among audiences, and as a pathway for creative development through sustainable artistic and cultural expression.
5. The performance “Saranbanjai Chiang Mai Lanna” has been presented to the public and used as a cultural communication tool in events such as Chingay Parade Singapore 2026 and as a farewell performance for Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana at the exhibition and showcase of Thai textile wisdom and community handicrafts in Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand.
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