Life of a Fictional Mallika
Engaging with the heritage of Nora, a southern dance form often depicting local folk tales, Naisu co-created a reinterpreted show with Thammanit Nikhomrat, the legendary Nora master. The show tells a story of an imaginary woman who forged her place within a close-knitted community of Nora danders. Told in verses, the show depicts a poetic tale about a young person building an identity within a traditional art practice, and in turn being shaped by it.
With redesigned costume and crowns, Naisu’s artistic direction brings fresh perspective on the art form. The projection of live painting onto the dance added an interactive, symbolic layer, making the story comes alive in real time with colors.
Performed at Nora House 168, May 2024
Produced by Prayoon for Art, in collaboration with Eyedropper Fill
A coming-of age story of Malika
Mallika loved to dance. She was born in a chaotic household.
While witnessing violence in the house, a close friend grew apart, deciding to pursue other path.
Finding her place in the community and practice, she slowly shed the past, grew up and became a teacher.
She became a head of her crew and grow the practice with her husband.
The broken heart had built a new home.
Story by Naisu
Thai verses by Thammanit Nikhomrat
