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Degree

Master of Arts, Miami University, Theatre, 2011.

Abstract

This thesis investigates lakhon nok as a queer performative theatre practice that mirrors the relationship between Thai queer people and society. The interviews of lakhon nok performers are utilized as documents that reveal the recognition of homosexuality in Thailand. Due to the acceptance of theatrical tradition and social norms embedded within lakhon nok performances, which include cross-dressing and are marked with a high level of queer performativity, the performances are accepted in Thai society and, as a result, homosexuality, particularly the transgendered, has also been recognized in Thailand. This thesis scrutinizes and meditates on overlapping paradigms: historiography, post-colonialism, and queer theory. All of these accommodate a queer reading. Ultimately, the study highlights queerness in Thai society reflected through lakhon nok performances.

Subject Headings

Theater Studies

Keywords

Thai traditional theatre; lakhon nok; Thai queer identity; queer performativity

Committee / Advisors

Paul K. Jackson, PhD (Committee Chair)
Howard Blanning, PhD (Committee Member)
Stefanie Dunning, PhD (Committee Member)

Pages

94p.

Document number: miami1303489225
Permalink: http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=miami1303489225

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