Behind the molam stage is a safe space for LGBTIQ+ (8)

Story by Donlawat Sunsuk

Photos by Supaporn Tamprakon

The rice fields turned yellow in the middle of November, waiting to be harvested. Cold winds signal that the rainy season has ended. That means preparations for new performances by molam performers have begun. 

Unable to perform crisis due to the government’s COVID-19 restrictions to prevent the spread of the disease at the beginning of this year, the Siang Isaan molam troupe has now resumed performances. Each year, including this one, they take time to prepare new performances.

Molam and LGBT+ lovers

At 7 p.m., more than 80 dancers are busy backstage applying makeup and preparing costumes inside more than 20 tents, with more than 20 costumes and sets of decorations.

A lesbian couple, Patthanakan “Pam” Kraisi, 31, and Kanyawee “Noi” Mipantong, 39, are busy with each other’s makeup and hair in preparation for the…