(photo: Jorge Vismara)

 

Performances

 

The Ritualized Tree (Kalla Pra Pluagh)

 

Choreographed and directed by Waewdao Sirisook

Premiered March 9-10, 2007 at UCLA Glorya Kaufman Hall

 

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The Ritualized Tree is inspired by Lanna (Northern Thai) rituals and ceremonies concerning the tree of life as described in several folk tales. Buddhists believe in the abundant tree of life, "Kalla Pra Pluagh," which grew during the era of the Fifth Buddha and offers all creatures everything they need. The tale of the tree exists alongside the belief that in the Himalayan forest when the "Chom Nad" flower blooms, its fragrance makes all creatures passionate and filled with desire, and the story that mysterious hybrid creatures emerged in the Himalayan forest, such as humans with bird wings. This dance piece illustrates how Lanna people pay homage to their spirits, ancestors, gods, and goddesses through rituals performed with the tree. 

Music: Chang Ston Contemporary Northern Thai Music Ensemble, Andrew Clay McGraw, Antonius Wahyudi Sutrisno, Gusti Sidarta, Made Subandi gamelan from banjar Batuyang, Batubulan, Gianyar Bali

Performers: Waewdao  Sirisook, Isaka Kaori, Jidaporn Sukpradit, Emme Jittra Black, Watanya Somphongs, Jittra Black, Permporn Sukpradit,  Suchitra Somphongs, Katheriya Patanumpuntong, Panu Trivej, Gregory Wayne Gee

With icing on top: Dusit Salakshana, Anchalee Vivekaphirat, Suchitra and Aphisak Somphongs