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The International Journal of the Royal Society of Thailand

Volume XVI-2024 (Special Issue)

Although the Thonburi era was relatively short, King Taksin’s contributions were instrumental

in ensuring the survival of Thailand’s performing arts, which would be further developed and
institutionalized in the subsequent Rattanakosin era under King Rama I.

The Rattanakosin Era (1782–Present)

The Rattanakosin era, beginning with the establishment of Bangkok as the capital in 1782,
marks a period of great revival, preservation, and innovation in Thai performing arts. Under the

Chakri Dynasty, especially during the reign of King Rama I, efforts were made to restore the
cultural legacy of the Ayutthaya period, which had been disrupted by the Burmese invasion.

The Rattanakosin period saw a renewed focus on traditional performing arts, such as Khon and
Lakon, with the monarchy playing a central role in their revival and development.

The monarchy’s patronage of the performing arts in Thailand has not only shaped the art
forms themselves but also provided essential support to the artists, dancers, and performers

who brought these traditions to life. Throughout history, Thai kings and members of the royal
family have played a vital role in nurturing the talents of performers, ensuring that they had

the resources, training, and recognition necessary to excel in their craft. This royal support was
instrumental in sustaining the performing arts as a central part of Thai culture.

During the Ayutthaya and early Rattanakosin periods, performers who served in royal
ceremonies or in the court were held in high esteem and were often given official titles and

privileges. Many performers were drawn from noble families, and their roles in royal performances
were seen as extensions of the monarchy’s divine authority. The royal court became the primary

center for the training of performers, with dedicated schools and institutions established to
ensure that the skills of traditional dance and drama were passed down through generations.

One of the most significant aspects of the monarchy’s support for performers was the
establishment of formal training institutions. During the Rattanakosin period, these institutions,

often located within the palace grounds, provided rigorous training in dance, music, and dramatic
performance. These schools were responsible for producing highly skilled performers who would

go on to participate in royal ceremonies and public performances. The close relationship between
the monarchy and these performers ensured that the arts remained closely aligned with royal

traditions.
In the 20 century, the establishment of the Fine Arts Department further institutionalized
th
the support for performers, ensuring that traditional Thai performances were preserved and
promoted. The monarchy continued to provide both financial support and public recognition for

performers, helping to raise the profile of Thai performing arts on the international stage.

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