Ayutthaya: Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother of Thailand, has played a crucial role in reviving the traditional Thai performing art known as Khon. Her determination to preserve this cultural heritage was famously expressed in 2007 when she declared, “If no one watches, I will watch it myself.” This royal initiative has led to regular royal Khon performances, breathing new life into the art form.
According to Thai News Agency, Khon is a performing art that is part of Thailand’s valuable cultural heritage. Recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity, Khon combines various art forms and has been passed down through generations. However, its popularity dwindled over time, especially after World War II, prompting concern from Her Majesty Queen Sirikit. In response, the Fine Arts Department organized a special performance for her in 2003, during her visit to Nong Khai Province.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is currently promoting a campaign titled “Smiles of the Land” to honor Her Majesty’s efforts in preserving Khon. This campaign invites Thai people to travel along the royal initiatives of Her Majesty the Queen Mother throughout the year.
A visit to the Ko Kerd Arts and Crafts Center in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province offers an opportunity to learn about Khon. The “Learn-Know-Khon” building at the center provides insight into the history and art of Khon, which has been under the patronage of Her Majesty the Queen Mother. This initiative began in 2007, reflecting the Queen’s commitment to promoting Khon and has led to the creation of jobs and careers, supporting families and communities.
The Khon Learning Building showcases various aspects of Khon, including the masks, costumes, and fine arts used in performances. Visitors can also witness the process of making Khon paper and painting Khon masks.
A highlight of the center is the Royal Khon performance, featuring sets and props from the “Indrajit’s Battle, Brahmasa Episode” first performed in 2007, to the “Satya Pali” episode continuing until 2025. The performances include scenes with moving and shining elements that create surprises for the audience, such as the royal junk of Lanka and the giantess of the sea butterfly. These scenes captivate both children and adults with their grandeur and beauty.
The Khon Learning Building is located in the Ko Kerd Arts and Crafts Center, Bang Pa-in District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. It is open Wednesday-Sunday (closed every Monday and Tuesday) from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Normally, the admission fee is 150 baht per adult and 75 baht per student/senior citizen 60 years and older. However, to express condolences and pay respects to Her Majesty the Queen Mother, the Khon Learning Building is open to all interested parties for free throughout this November.