Miscellany of Khon at Khao Yai Art Forest

16-17 August 2025 | Khao Yai Thailand

When the Mother Bows: Farewell to Maman Beneath the Skies of Khao Yai

In the heart of Khao Yai’s breathing forest, the Farewell to Maman, Louise Bourgeois’s iconic sculpture, unfolded on the weekend of August 16–17, through the Khon performance - Melancholy of Mandadori. The timeless echo between Queen Montho and Bourgeois’s Mother transformed the evening into a ritual of remembrance and quiet healing, resonating with the Forest’s vision of weaving dialogue across cultures and disciplines.

Special performances by Jitti Chompee and 18 Monkeys Dance Theatre for reimagining the Khon dance and music, in collaboration with the Department of Fine Arts.

Credits:
Direction, Set Design, Costume, and Concept: Jitti Chompee
Performing Artists and Pipaat Ensemble (Traditional Thai Orchestra): Fine Arts Department, Office of Performing Arts (the National Theatre)
Technical Director: Jirach Eaimsa-ard
Khon Mask Maker: Khanchai Homjan
Puppet Maker: Dvis Nichanthaaman
Supported by the Ministry of Culture, Department of Cultural Promotion, the Fine Arts Department, Office of Performing Arts (the National Theatre)