Bangkok: The Foundation for the Promotion of the Arts and Crafts of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother organized a significant ceremony to honor the Khon Foundation for the Promotion of the Arts and Crafts of the Ramakien, specifically marking the episode “Phra Chakrawatarn.” Air Chief Marshal Satitpong Sukwimol, His Majesty the King’s Private Secretary, served as the presiding official, leading the annual Khon performance offering ceremony for the Support Foundation’s 2024 performance of ‘Phra Chakrawatarn.’ The event took place at the Main Auditorium, Thailand Cultural Center, with Phra Maha Ratchakhru Phisithsiriwisutthikun overseeing the ceremonial reading of offering verses and the anointing of the Khon stage and equipment.
According to Thai News Agency, the ceremony witnessed the participation of various dignitaries, including Mrs. Yupha Thaweewatthanakitborworn, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, and Mr. Prasop Riangngen, Director-General of the Department of Cultural Promotion, a
long with other ministry executives. This year’s Khon performance is particularly auspicious as it coincides with two major celebrations: the 92nd birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother on August 12, 2024, and the 72nd birthday of His Majesty the King on July 28, 2024. The Support Foundation has chosen to commemorate these occasions with the ‘Phra Chakrawatara’ episode, a narrative showcasing the miracles of Phra Chakra, who reincarnated as Phra Ram, tasked with overcoming evil forces, akin to the Chakri Dynasty’s role in sustaining peace and happiness for the Thai people.
The scheduled performances will run from November 7 to December 8, 2024, at the Thailand Cultural Center’s Main Auditorium. The selection of ‘Phra Chakravatara’ aligns with the narratives of Indra and the gods summoning Phra Narai, who reincarnates as Phra Ram, with Phra Lakshmi as Nang Sita. The tale unfolds with the conflict against Thotsakan and his royal family, setting the stage for an epic battle following Nang Sita’s
abduction. The Khon performances promise to captivate audiences with this timeless story.
Additionally, the performances will spotlight young, talented performers trained by expert dance instructors, showcasing their mastery of traditional dance. Attendees will also experience the beauty of Thai music, singing, intricate costumes, and the grand stage crafted for the ‘Phra Chakrawatarn’ performance. Tickets are now available, priced at 2,000, 1,800, 1,000, 800, and 600 baht, with a special student price of 180 baht. They can be purchased through all Thai Ticket Major branches by calling 0-2262-3456 or visiting www.thaiticketmajor.com.