On November 3, Their Majesties the King and Queen attended the premiere of an extraordinary Khon performance, The Ramakien: Phra Chakrawatara, held at the Thailand Cultural Center in Bangkok. This special event, organized by the SUPPORT Foundation of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, opened at 7:00 p.m. and attracted a significant audience eager to witness a unique expression of Thailand’s rich cultural heritage.
The performance is part of a year-long celebration in Thailand, marking auspicious milestones in 2024, including Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother’s 92nd birthday in August and His Majesty the King’s 72nd birthday in July. The play brings to life the revered Thai epic The Ramakien, focusing on the Phra Chakrawatara episode, where Phra Ram, an incarnation of Vishnu, battles the demon king Ravana. This timeless narrative embodies the victory of good over evil and showcases the grandeur of traditional Khon theater.
The production unfolds across two acts, presenting eight meticulously crafted scenes. Act 1 features the divine repose of Vishnu on the ocean, Phra Ram’s initial battles, Sammanakkha’s incitement of conflict, and the dramatic abduction of Sita by Ravana. Act 2 progresses with epic clashes, including Ravana’s battle with Jatayu, Phra Ram’s preparation for war, an intense battle scene, and the ultimate celebration of victory.
Following the royal premiere, The Ramakien: Phra Chakrawatara is now open to the public, running from November 7 to December 8, 2024, at the Thailand Cultural Center. Tickets are available through ThaiTicketMajor at various price points: 600, 800, 1,000, 1,800, and 2,000 baht. This Khon performance, brought to life by Thailand’s most skilled performers, promises an unforgettable experience and a deep connection to Thailand’s cultural roots.
For those wishing to immerse themselves in an authentic display of Thai artistry, this performance offers an exceptional cultural experience celebrating the country’s artistic legacy.