Abstract

The development of classical performance studies at university level is a major development in the field of fine and applied arts studies in Thailand as a whole. This qualitative study used in-depth interviews and discussions with experts and policy-makers in the field, as well as personal observations to identify a method for producing graduate level scholars in Thai classical performance. The study found that Rajabhat Universities first offered classical performance studies on the graduate level by incorporating it as a part of their arts studies program. Later these studies were given their own division within the department of arts, with majors offered at both the masters and doctoral level. This was made possible by integrating traditional performance arts studies with other disciplines such as folk-studies, environmental research, and global trends. In addition to focusing on student execution of traditional dance, real-world performance experience and development of creativity as artists, these new programs made inter-disciplinary studies an essential part of becoming an expert in classical performance. This research concludes that in order to create scholars of classical performance on the graduate level with the capacity to improve classical performance study programs in state institutions throughout the country, well-rounded programs must be developed, leading to the creation of scholars able to preserve classical Thai performance arts long into the future.

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