"I Say Mingalaba, You Say Goodbye," a play that recently graced the stage during the Bangkok International Performing Arts Meeting (BIPAM) in March 2023, comes from the talented Thai playwright and director, Jarunun Phantachat. Commissioned by Kyoto Experiment, this play marks a significant moment as it was performed in Thailand for the first time, showcasing Phantachat’s unique approach to blending fictional narratives and personal experiences from the crew.
Guided by the artistic vision of Jarunun Phantachat, this play explores the Thai-Burmese relationship during transformative times, challenging indoctrinated truths. "I Say Mingalabla, You Say Goodbye," reflects on the complex history between Thailand and Myanmar, interweaving personal stories from performers and Jarunun Phantachat.
The play, in five languages—Thai, Burmese, Japanese, English, and French—blends reality and fiction as performers take on multiple roles, including themselves and historical figures. Jarunun Phantachat’s play invites audiences to rethink the past in the present moment through its artistic staging.
Photo courtesy of B-Floor Theater, The Nation, and Jarunun Phantachat.