Interpreting Literary Heritage: “Lilit Phra Law” Through Dance as Part of Heritage Interpretation for the 21st Century

Abstract

This article explores how literary heritage can be reinterpreted through creative dance to sustain its relevance in the 21st century. It derives from a dissertation-length study entitled “Interpreting Literary Heritage: Lilit Phra Law through Dance as Part of Heritage Interpretation for the 21st Century.” The research employed six methods: literature review, personal experiential analysis, field studies, media exploration, symposium discussions, and structured interviews. Data collection was conducted in Thailand from March 2004 to April 2024, involving performing arts professionals, music and drama academics, senior practitioners from the Office of Performing Arts, the Fine Arts Department, Ministry of Culture, and both Thai and international audiences. The findings propose a conceptual model for adapting dance from literary sources as a form of heritage interpretation, demonstrating how creative dance can contribute to the revitalization and sustainability of Thai performing arts within a rapidly evolving cultural landscape.