The Knowledge Transfer Process of Mor Lam Ruang Toh Klon Khon Kaen Style to Prisoners at Khon Kaen Central Prison

Abstract

The objective of this research was to convey the art of performing Mor Lam Rueang Tor Klon Khon Kaen style, by transferring the singing and performing techniques to prisoners in Khon Kaen Central Prison and evaluate research achievements. The research method included document study and fieldwork, consisting of observation and interviews with experts. The research results were presented through a performance presentation. The data was analyzed using the descriptive analysis method. The results of the study are as follows. In terms of the knowledge transfer process of the performing arts of Mor Lam Rueang Tor Klon Khon Kaen style through the process of transferring the singing and performing techniques to prisoners in Khon Kaen Central Prison, the composer included morals, ethics, and teachings into the song. Prisoners involved in the performance drew lessons from the characters they played. The activities from the research helped prisoners relieve stress. Mor Lum evolved from the palm leaf books into different types of performances, such as Mor Lum Pheun, Mor Lum Klon, Mor Lum Moo, Mor Lum Sing, and Mor Lum Phi Fah. Each type of Mor Lum is presented differently. One common element for all types of Mor Lum is the morals, ethics, teaching, beliefs, and livelihood of Isaan people ingrained within every song. Currently, the type of Mor Lum that both the older and younger generation can gain most access to is Mor Lum Tor Klon. There are many styles of Mor Lum Rueng Tor Klon in the Isaan region, such as the Ubon style, Khon Kaen Style, Kalasin Style, and Mahasarakham style. However, the style that is the most popular today is the Khon Kaen style due to its easy-listening tune, easier access, and easier to perform. Although the Khon Kaen style can be further categorized into various sangwats, or sub-styles, such as Paw Inta style, Paw Rabiab style, or Chumphae style, listeners still prefer the Khon Kaen style. Currently, 90 percent of the popular Mor Lum groups in the Isaan Region are the Mor Lum Rueng Tor Klon groups in Khon Kaen.  It can be assumed that when Isaan people hear Mor Lum music, they feel joy in their hearts. Those who work in other regions miss home even more whenever they hear the Mor Lum music. However, there is another group of people who are also from Isaan but their freedom to the outside world has been taken away. We know them as “prisoners”.  Prisoners are those who committed crimes and are detained by the Department of Correction. The department is the last department down that judicial line, tasked with overseeing prisoners convicted by the court and rehabilitating them to return to society as good citizens (Jirathitikarn, 2011). Khon Kaen Central Prison is a Northeastern regional prison for prisoners with skills in local performances and Luk Thung and Mor Lum music. There are workshops to provide knowledge in local Isaan music performances, which are used for improving the behaviors of prisoners to be able to adapt themselves as good citizens of society, as well as using the skill to develop their minds or generate income after they are released.  From the above statement, the researchers found that whether they are prisoners in prisons or normal people living in society, they all need entertainment to soothe their sorrows. Therefore, the target group of this research consisted of prisoners detained in prison. Although they are physically detained, they should be able to receive the same type of happiness as people living on the outside. Thus, the researchers used an Isaan local performance, Mor Lum Tor Klon, as a tool that provides entertainment, while being embedded with teachings, morals, and ethics. Additionally, prisoners would receive knowledge in singing and participate in a Mor Lum Tor Klon Khon Kaen Style performance. When the prisoners are released, they can use the knowledge and skills in Mor Lum to start their careers and be accepted back into society. The researchers believe that this research will benefit the prisoners in Khon Kaen Central Prison, as well as be used as a tool in preserving the arts and culture of Mor Lum Tor Klon Khon Kaen Style in the future.