As part of the Thailand: Grand Invitation series of events and openings, the theatre at Siam Niramit was opened to welcome audiences (both Thai and Western) to view cultural heritage shows and related spectacles.
I went along to the PTT shareholders conference today which was held at Siam Niramit. I’ll let you in on a secret - I don’t really have any shares in PTT Thailand (oil and energy company). However, in my well practiced art of sneaking into things I shouldn’t be a part of, I managed to become the only farang present at the buffet, cocktail and performance afternoon.
It was too hot outside, but once inside the theatre (a massive theatre, with no expense spared on the stage design and lighting rigs) things got alot better and after a tolerable half hour speech on the future of energy in Thailand (I have the urge to shop with PTT from now on, despite having no idea what they actually sell) the main show began. The performers show spotlights on the past, starting with Isaan culture and then Southern traders meeting with the Chinese tradesmen. We see the remnants of Khmer culture in the NE and some truly spectacular production tricks including an on-stage river.
I have some background in theatre and I was heartily impressed by the production. Not only was every scene change slick and smooth but the performers were elegant and professional - not a hint of the usual ‘Thai’ slapdash we all become used to seeing day to day.
The auditorium was well used as were the sidestages, and there was an embedded front of stage which was flooded at various stages to provide riverways and add depth to the proceedings on stage. A real treat - it can be seen for 2500 THB at Siam Niramit, Tiam ruam mit Road, near Rama 9 and Ratchadapisek. It’s also known as Ratchada theatre.