BANGKOK, Thailand – The SUPPORT Foundation under the Patronage of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother held the annual “Wai Khru” (Teacher Homage) Ceremony on October 21 for the 2025 Khon performance Satya Pali at the Bunditpatanasilpa Institute, Nakhon Pathom province. The ceremony was presided over by Air Chief Marshal Satitpong Sukvimol, Royal Secretary to His Majesty the King and Secretary-General of the SUPPORT Foundation, with National Artist Phaitoon Khemkhaeng serving as the ritual master.
The Wai Khru ceremony, a sacred tradition in Thai performing arts, honors teachers and masters before major productions and rehearsals. This year’s ceremony was attended by members of the Foundation’s board, directors, trainers, performers, and students, symbolizing unity and respect ahead of the grand Khon performance Satyapali, which will be staged at the Thailand Cultural Centre from November 6 to December 8, 2025.
Following the ceremony, Air Chief Marshal Satitpong presented the SUPPORT Foundation’s 2025 Royal Scholarship Awards to 15 outstanding Khon performers selected across five categories: male and female dramatic roles, and the Khon roles of Phra, Giant, and Monkey. The awards recognize exceptional talent and dedication to preserving Thailand’s classical performance traditions among students from dramatic arts institutions nationwide.
The upcoming Khon production Satya Pali tells the story of Pali, the Monkey King of Kishkindha, who breaks his vow and seeks redemption. The performance conveys themes of gratitude, loyalty, and moral responsibility, alongside the epic confrontation between Rama and Ravana. Audiences can expect intricate choreography, elaborate costumes, and refined artistry rooted in Thailand’s classical heritage.
The annual Khon performance remains one of Thailand’s most esteemed cultural showcases under royal patronage. Tickets for Satya Pali are available through Thai Ticket Major (www.thaiticketmajor.com) and are priced from 200 to 2,000 baht, with discounted seats available for student performances. (NNT)
