Opera Siam’s debut opera on Koh Chang, The Silent Prince, brings culture and art to a remote paradise.
Opera Siam recently made history with the first-ever opera performance on a Thai island, staging The Silent Prince by Somtow Sucharitkul on the serene island of Koh Chang. Set against the natural beauty of the island, in the gardens of The Retreat, a luxurious oceanside resort, this debut production has already captured the hearts of audiences around the world. The Silent Prince, which has previously been performed in global cities like Bayreuth, Houston, and Prague, is lauded as “a timeless masterpiece” by the Houston Chronicle since its premiere a decade ago.
A Vision Comes to Life
The idea to bring opera to Koh Chang was the brainchild of Mate Teeraniti, the owner of The Retreat. Teeraniti envisioned a groundbreaking cultural event that would not only transform how visitors perceive Koh Chang but also help cultivate a new cultural identity for the island. “This is going to revolutionize how people view Koh Chang. It will attract cultural-minded tourists and provide unique, enriching experiences for the local population,” said Teeraniti, sharing his excitement about the potential impact of such a performance.
Teeraniti’s vision was brought to life with Somtow Sucharitkul at the helm, who directed the production himself. Known for his unparalleled ability to blend classical and contemporary opera, Somtow adapted his production to the unique open-air setting of Koh Chang, transforming its scenes of royal palaces, jungles, heaven, and hell into immersive experiences that mirrored the natural beauty around them.
An Opera in Paradise
The open-air setting presented logistical challenges that typical indoor venues don’t face, especially on an island, where the weather is unpredictable. Despite these challenges, The Silent Prince unfolded without a hitch, thanks to meticulous preparation and attention to detail. Conducting the performance was Trisdee Na Patalung, recognized as one of the most gifted conductors of his generation. His unwavering dedication and skillful orchestration ensured the flawless execution of the performance.
William Niall Morris, a regular reviewer for Bangkok Post and Opera Magazine, attended the island premiere and noted the unique experience of the outdoor opera. “Considering the technical challenges inherent in any outdoor production, especially on an island, where power can fail without warning, the evening unfolded seamlessly,” Morris wrote. “When the performance ended, Maestro Somtow stepped forward to bow, and the audience rose in heartfelt gratitude. Together we had witnessed something truly rare, an opera that seemed to emerge as part of the island itself, lingering long after the last light had faded beyond the horizon.”
Moving to Bangkok: A More Traditional Venue
After its monumental success on Koh Chang, the performance of The Silent Prince moved to Bangkok, where it was staged at the more traditional Great Hall at King’s College Bangkok. In this setting, the opera unfolded with the full grandeur and theatricality that made the piece a global sensation. The transition from the island’s natural beauty to the formal environment of the Great Hall showcased the versatility of the production, demonstrating how The Silent Prince can captivate audiences in any setting.
Somtow Sucharitkul’s The Silent Prince is not only a masterpiece in terms of music but also a work that bridges cultural gaps. “It’s an opera designed to travel,” Somtow remarked. “As the first Buddhist opera, it plays an important role in teaching people about the culture and values of Southeast Asia in an accessible contemporary art form.”
Global Plans for The Silent Prince
Somtow’s passion for spreading the beauty and message of The Silent Prince continues to drive its global journey. With plans to present the opera at further venues around the world, Somtow is committed to sharing a piece of Southeast Asian culture with global audiences. The opera has already been seen in more cities than any of his other dozen works, and its message of spirituality and transformation resonates universally.
As the first Buddhist opera, The Silent Prince has become a tool for cultural education, offering insights into Southeast Asia’s rich traditions and spiritual philosophy through the lens of contemporary art. The production’s unique blend of Western operatic structure and Eastern cultural values makes it a rare and valuable experience for international audiences.
Koh Chang: A New Cultural Landmark
For Koh Chang, the production has already had a transformative effect. Not only has it attracted tourists from across the globe, but it has also created a lasting impression on the local community, providing an enriching cultural experience that was once unimaginable for a remote island. Opera Siam’s performance has proven that art and culture can thrive in the most unexpected places.
Teeraniti hopes that this is only the beginning of a series of cultural events that will continue to elevate Koh Chang’s status as a unique destination for art lovers. “Our goal is to create a cultural bridge between the natural beauty of the island and the world of high art,” he said. “By bringing opera to Koh Chang, we are adding another layer to what makes this island so special.”
A New Era for Opera Siam
Opera Siam’s production of The Silent Prince on Koh Chang represents a bold new chapter in the world of opera. The company’s ability to adapt and innovate within unique settings shows that classical art forms can evolve, reaching new audiences in creative ways. Opera Siam continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of opera, blending the timeless with the contemporary and offering audiences an experience that is both visually stunning and deeply moving.
For more information on The Silent Prince and upcoming performances, visit Opera Siam’s official website at www.operasiam.com.
As Opera Siam continues its mission to bring world-class opera to diverse audiences, its historic return from Koh Chang marks the beginning of an exciting cultural renaissance in Thailand, and an exciting future for opera around the world.