BANGKOK — A leading dance provocateur crowdfunded a forthcoming production by raising 240,000 baht from audience-investors who in return will gain a stake in its success.
Two days after announcing an innovative approach to funding his next production, experimental choreographer Pichet Klunchun said Friday night he’d already recruited 240 “alliances” at 1,000 baht each to obtain advanced tickets and ownership of the play for two years.
“I believe that this idea will give life to Theatre Performance Art because we are creating a sustainable community,” Pichet wrote.
“Phya Chattan” was first performed 12 years ago and has toured in Japan, Denmark and Belgium. It tells a complex story of the Elephant King’s sacrifice to end cycles of vengeance.
Pichet, who’s long challenged traditionalists by exploding ancient form, said new ways must be found to sustain the arts – and the full-time artists who struggle to create work.
“My purpose is to use Art as ‘Spiritual Security for Humanity’ for everyone who is framed by the entertainment system of our society,” he wrote.
The 240 persons will joined will be the first audience to see the performance and receive a 40 percent share of the performance’s income for two years.
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