Likay in Thailand originated as an old Islamic religious activity that was imported into Thailand during the Ayutthaya era. This show was changed and modified by Thai culture and became a kind of Thai acting performance. Likay is very famous in Central Thailand and there are more than six hundred Likay troupes in the area. Most of them also conserve the traditional traits and identities of Thai Likay very well, even if some things have been changed over time. The nine important components of Likay performance are: ritual and belief, Likay stage setting, standard Likay music bands, skillful performers, specific costumes, interesting drama, authentic songs, good language poems, and suitable dancing. The researcher found that the current problems of Likay performance in Central Thailand can be classified into three groups. The first group is the problem with performers, such as a lack of professional performers and the development of future generations. The second group concerned the nine components of Likay performance, such as a lack of interest, ignorance of traditional rituals, lack of common language and poor audiences support. The final group concerned troupe management, such as poor support by communities and local governors. For
www.ccsenet.org/ass Asian Social Science Vol. 9, No. 4; 2013
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these reasons, the researcher tried to discover an approach to Likay performance development. So, the patterns of Likay development must cover every problem. These approaches should lead to increased economic, social and cultural value of Thai Likay performances. Finally, Likay performances should be promoted to be a part of the national, cultural heritage as soon as possible. The development pattern of Likay performance to add economic, social and cultural value should be started by the local government and community. Likay troupes should upgrade themselves to be community businesses and make more money for their own community. Likay should be supported and conserved by the community and Likay performers should be good role models for the next generation. More creativity and morality should be included in the Likay shows. At the same time, the nine components of Likay performance should be upgraded and developed