Nora Rong Khru Rite of Song Pinong Silapa Ban Trang Troupe, Mayo District, Pattani Province

Abstract

This research aimed: 1) to study the historical background, element and performance pattern of Nora Rong Khru Rite of Song Pinong Silapa Ban Trang Troupe, Mayo District, Pattani Province, and 2) to determine the identity of Nora Rong Khru Rite of Song Pinong Silapa Ban Trang Troupe, Mayo District, Pattani Province. Data for the study were collected from documentary studies, field observations, interviews with individuals involved, and hand-on practice in dance postures from Mrs. Prim Kaewthong.

The results of the study revealed that the troupe was the only performance group which was headed by a female master.  The group has been performing the art for the last 29 years.  The performing art has been inherited from Inkaew Nora Rong Khru troupe that originated from a male master of renowned Nora Samthong troupe during the reign of King Rama I, 200 years ago (B.E. 2353/1810 A.D.).  The major elements of the troupe consisted of 8 performers, i.e. two female Nora masters, 1 actor, and 5 choruses.  There were three types of costumes for performance, ‘Kheangsai,’ ‘Khreaung Boh,’ and those for the clowns.  Accompanying music was played with folk musical instruments for 43 catchphrases divided into 31 and 12 verse styles with 20 tunes.  Dance postures ranged from squatting on the floor to standing posturer with slow to moderate tempo.  The instruments used in the performance were Kris, Chawala lamp, Pae, Saeng, betel leaf, coconut floral offerings, and Sad Khla (mat).  The rite was performed during the 6th, 7th and 9th lunar months of the year.   The unique appearance of the Nora show was a mixture of performance between Nora Rong Khru, Nora Khaek and Majong theatre.  In addition, the performance of Nora Rong Khru also reflected the role of female Nora in creating a sense of community bond, love and adaptation of culture in the society, which contributed to the harmony of multiculturalism of Thai Buddhists and Thai Muslims.