Bangkok: Tracing back to "Likay Songkruang," a heritage of Thai performing arts and a masterpiece of craftsmanship, unveils a rich cultural tapestry of central Thailand. Likay Songkruang, a folk performance, originated around 1907 during the reign of King Chulalongkorn. The first performance was staged by Phraya Phetpani at a theater, or "vik," near Phra Kan Fort, on the banks of Khlong Ong Ang, opposite Wat Ratchanatdaram.
According to Thai News Agency, the elaborate Likay performance comprises dialogue, singing, and dancing, accompanied by a Piphat orchestra. Performers don costumes that replicate royal attire and insignia. Male characters wear a pointed crown, brocade jacket, brocade skirt and trousers, a necklace, epaulets, and a sash adorned with a bow, along with white socks. Female characters, meanwhile, are adorned with a royal crown, short-sleeved embroidered blouse, necklace, shawl with a bow on the shoulder, and a pleated skirt.
Key dance movements integral to the performance include the introductory dance with Cherd and Samoe music, the interpretive bedside dance with traditional Thai songs, the courtship dance between the prince and princess, and the combat dance involving short and long weapons. These elements demand high skill levels, showcasing the intricate artistry of Likay Thongkruang.
Performers are required to be well-rounded, possessing a good voice, clarity in speech, precision in their lines, and an understanding of the performance's essence. This versatility allows them to convey emotions effectively, earning the affection of audiences and the nickname "the darling of the female fans."
Likay Songkruang has set a high standard for subsequent Likay performances, influencing dance movements, singing styles, and overall performance techniques. The Ranikeling song, composed by Kru Dokdin Sueasanga, became a defining feature of Likay, cementing its place in the cultural heritage of Thailand.