Development of Lifestyle Following Occupational Success as a Mor Lam Artist

Abstract

Mor Lam is a folk performing art that originates from traditions in the locality and customs of religion. There are some current problems with Mor Lam, especially in the face of globalization. Mor Lam suffers as traditional beliefs and values decrease. Society is rapidly changing and the role of the mass media has increased. Newer media provide knowledge and entertainment in ways that make it impossible for Mor Lam to compete. This research used a cultural qualitative research method and had three main aims: to study the history of Mor Lam artists, to study the present conditions and lifestyle of successful Mor Lam performers and to develop the lifestyle of successful Mor Lam performers. The research was carried out from July 2011 to October 2012. Data was collected through field notes, structured and non-structured interviews, participant and non-participant observation and focus group discussion. The results show that Mor Lam is a performance style that has been very popular in the Isan region. It has a long history and is closely associated with the religious beliefs, values and way of life of Isan people. The way of life of Mor Lam artists depends on internal and external factors. Internal factors are chance and perseverance. Most Mor Lam artists lack education in the standard system and depend on the status of their family. In the past Isan society was poor. Farming and agriculture was the chief occupation, which relied heavily on nature. People had difficulty transporting to the city to study, so most Mor Lam artists like practiced their art as a way of being heard and seen. A Mor Lam artist must be intelligent, dedicated and self-confident with high levels of creativity. External factors are technology, family status and social beliefs. From interviews and discussion, lifestyle must be developed to focus on health, education, mind, morals, readiness to live in society, occupational skill and benefits.