Identity Construction through Oral History of Ramwong Urak Lawoi, Koh Sirae, Phuket Province

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to describe the identity formation of Ramwong Urak Lawoi through the oral histories and experiences of those who engaged in Urak Lawoi dance performances at Ko Siray, Phuket Province. Using the conceptual framework of oral history, the study realized that the development of the music and dance of the Urak Lawoi dance reflects the process of forming a social identity that is related to a social context that conveys the way of thinking of the community's members in multiple dimensions. It consists of ten conceptual issues: (1) Language conditions; (2) Application of musical instruments; (3) Construction of Ramwong identity by naming Thai bands; (4) Selection of musical instruments; (5) Defining rules for the use of musical instruments; (6) Cultural integration; (7)Succession of dancers; (8) Establishment of a Ramwong show business; (9) Import of Suntaraporn band's songs; and (10) Establishing the norm for the wedding dance. All 10 elements can consequently be utilized to define the history and evolution of the Urak Lawoi dance, which can be divided into three periods: the period of traditional Urak Lawoi dance, the period of the foundation of the Phonsawan troupe, and the current Phonsawan dance troupe.