Sounds from a traditional Thai piphat music ensemble resonated, as a likay comedian appeared on stage wearing a Batman costume at a folk theatre performance at a temple in Pathum Thani, near Bangkok last week.
Photographer Patipat Janthong captured the resolutely contemporary production by the likay theatre troupe Song Thep Butr Sudtheerak (The Two Cherished Male Divinities), which had caught the attention of social media users thanks to its costumes inspired by superhero characters such as Batman and Spiderman.
"All of you must watch the performance. The ticket fees will be used to pay for the characters' licensing costs," Thanetpipat Suthirandamrong quips, addressing the audience. Before he begins his performance, the 25-year-old likay comedian prays, asking for blessings from protective spirits. As soon as he gets into his character, the audience delights in his dancing and his well-timed wisecracks.
Patipat's interest for the Ayutthaya-based likay troupe was sparked when he saw pictures of the troupe's modern-day superheroes costumes online.
"I wanted to know how they came up with the idea," says the photographer, who is intrigued by the changes traditional Thai art forms undergo today.
The folk theatre genre likay is best known for its glitzy, extravagant costumes and heavy make-up, as well as for its equally comic and melodramatic storylines. Despite being hugely popular in temple fairs and several ceremonies, likay was often dismissed as "folk entertainment" and depicted as a struggling industry in today's Thailand. Nonetheless, troupes such as the Song Thep Butr Sudtheerak likay company have been going strong for nearly 40 years, and was previously known as the Daeng Sod Thanoo Petch (Bright Red, Diamond Bow) ensemble.
Ekachai Sirichai, the set and production designer for the troupe, told Patipat that their more traditional performances are still receiving the same success as in the past. Superhero costumes are merely an addition to their established repertoire, destined to entertain new generations in a way that appeals to them. Modern-day gags and witticisms also punctuate the classic likay plots.
"I've loved superhero characters since I was a child. I've integrated them to our performances without knowing it would spark so much attention. I simply wished to combine characters I love with the profession that I love," Ekachai said.
When the first photographs of performers dressed as likay renditions of Batman and Spiderman surfaced online, many social media users praised the troupe for its use of contemporary plot devices and costumes. However, this marked a change from previous responses to the cast's experiments. When, a few years ago, Ekachai placed a motorbike on stage, it drew mixed reactions.
"I believe we need to innovate, by mixing the old with the new. If we only perform slow-paced likay plays, I'm afraid that the younger members of the audience will get bored," he added.
"I hope that this will be a starting point for many more contemporary interpretations in the likay industry."
