Nora and Nang Talung: Developing Management and Transmission of Local Artist Training Centers in Songkhla Province

Abstract

This research aimed to study the current state of management issues in the transmission and guidelines for the development in management and transfer of knowledge of Nora folk art and Shadow play at the Folk Artiste Training Centers in Songkhla. Data were collected using such instruments as structured in-depth interview schedule derived from the chiefs and members of local Artiste Training Centers committee, participatory observation form and workshops on the current state of management problems and guidelines for the development of the local Artiste Training Centers. The sample used in the study included a total of 32 people, consisting of nora performers, shadow play puppeteers, chiefs of Training Centers, scholars, community administrators and community leaders.  The results of the study revealed that at present only two centers were in operation in the area, namely, the ManoraTraining Center and Lamduan, student of Imtheng Shadow Play Training Center in Bang Klam District, Songkhla Province. The common problems faced by the training centers included less attention paid by related agencies and people in the community in the support of local folk performing arts and this fact led to the inactivity of the centers.  Workshops organized to find guidelines for the development of management of the training centers indicated the following.  The chiefs of the training centers must be ethical in administering the work. Both the public and private sector agencies should support and promote the performing arts, both in terms of resources and budget. Transmission of knowledge should be provided as a short-term course taught in the educational institution.  Folk artistes should transfer their knowledge based on the original traditions so that the local wisdom of traditional performances shall preserved.