Royal Patronage Revives Thai Masked Dance Khon
BANGKOK, Nov 3 (TNA) - The conservation of Khon (Thai traditional masked dance-drama) has been a central royal initiative, leading to the dramatic revival of the high-art performance under the patronage of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother.
This revived form is widely known as the Khon of the SUPPORT Foundation or Royal Khon.
The massive restoration effort began in 2003 after Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn expressed concern that the classical art form faced decline due to a lack of both performers and audiences.
The pivotal moment came with the Queen Mother's resolute command: "If no one watches it, I will watch it myself." This firm royal sentiment marked the start of the greatest revival of Khon in Thai history.
The Queen Mother dedicated herself to conserving, restoring, and promoting every dimension of Khon performance. She provided substantial funds to support the development and modernization of costumes, headpieces, Khon masks, and makeup techniques—all while preserving their exquisite traditional beauty.
Her dedication is perfectly expressed in her famous quote: "My loss is the nation's gain." This royal statement serves as a vital encouragement to Khon artists to preserve this art form for the nation.
The first performance of the Khon of the SUPPORT Foundation took place in 2007. For nearly two decades since then, the annual productions have become highly anticipated, consistently drawing capacity crowds. The performances are celebrated for being accessible to modern audiences, integrating sophisticated modern lighting, sound, and stage techniques.
The 2025 production, titled "Sattaya Phali," will run from November 6 to December 8 at the Thailand Cultural Centre's main auditorium. It is staged to express profound gratitude for the Queen Mother's benevolence in ensuring the survival of Thailand's high-art drama.
The initiative has also focused on fostering the next generation of performers. Theera Pan-chue, a scholarship recipient from the foundation, noted that the Queen Mother's patronage is nurturing skilled new artists, supporting not only the dance itself but also the extensive details of staging, from lighting and sound to set design.
The profound impact of the Queen Mother’s royal endeavor culminated in 2018 when UNESCO recognized Khon as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This global accolade stands as a testament to Her Majesty's immense kindness in embracing and revitalizing Khon, ensuring its continued existence in Thailand and its recognition worldwide. -819 (TNA)
