Nang Sip Song – Phra Rot Meree: The Techniques of Creating Performance Scripts of Folk Songs of Thailand's Central Region

Abstract

This article aims to compare the form, content, and language, as well as to analyze the creative techniques used in composing the performances of the folk song 'Nang Sip Song - Phra Rot Meree.' Data were collected from original handwritten manuscripts and published copies, totaling 32 versions. The study was conducted according to the concepts of literary studies, folk songs, and Thai performing arts.The analysis and comparison of the performance scripts revealed distinctive characteristics that can be divided into three types: 1) narrative songs, 2) dialogue songs, and 3) dramatized songs. Regarding the creative techniques, it was found that 1) there are five main shared techniques: (1) selecting content, (2) structuring the plot in chronological order, (3) choosing genre and melody of folk songs, (4) composing lyrics, (5) presenting key creative concepts; 2) there are specific techniques that vary by types of song: 2.1) For narrative songs, the techniques include (1) choosing the type of song, (2) interaction with the audience. 2.2) For dialogue songs, the techniques include (1) selecting significant issues as topics for debate, (2) using rhetorical expressions for flirting and argumentation, (3) employing sexually humorous remarks. 2.3) For dramatized songs, the techniques include (1) enhancing, cutting, and refining the components of the performance, (2) inserting narration, dialogue, and descriptions, (3) incorporating humor, (4) including Thai musical pieces, (5) creating a complete performance script. This research uncovered valuable and ancient information and provided insights into the creative techniques of composing performance scripts, serving as guidelines for education, creation, and further development.