Preecha “Kru Siang” Karun

FOUNDER, DEK THEVADA PUPPET TROUPE

Industry : The Arts

A Fine Arts graduate from the northeastern province of Maha Sarakham, with a background in theatre, mime, and puppetry, Khru Siang felt that puppets could help develop the potential of children in the remote village of Na Dun. The goal was to make art and culture an integral part of everyday life instead of a distant and seemingly useless concept. Using local materials like sticky rice baskets to create puppets and supported by traditional mor lam music, as well as familiar stories from legend, festivals, or religion as the basis for the performances, he engaged the local children through participatory efforts. Performances took place in an old donated garage, which they all renovated using palm thatch, cow dung, and clay. Starting as an after-school activity, the troupe now performs around the country and even at international festivals. Preecha is proud that he has created a fun learning process that leads to self-discovery, igniting a sense of pride in the traditional cultural heritage. The children have gained confidence, and many have set up their own school puppet groups or have become community leaders who give back to society.