At 7:00 PM on May 27, 500 people gathered at the Freud Playhouse to witness UCLA Thai Smakom’s presentation of the 9th Annual Thai Culture Night called “See Yaek” (Thai for “Intersection”).  The event was aimed at revealing the crossroads between Thai and Thai-American lives, and promoting awareness of the current difficulties in Thailand (especially financial predicaments and the loss of cultural values when following the footsteps of developed foreign nations). These objectives were achieved through drama scenes, each separated by hip hop, martial arts, dances, a game, and a pageant.

The drama followed the experiences of Kaew and Jay as they transition from the high-class society in Thailand to middle-class life in America. Their lives intersect as their identities, morals, and values are questioned.

Overall, despite the $15,000 and extensive time invested into the production, director Nicha Tantipinichiwong declared that she enjoyed every moment of it. Leading actress Proud Usahacharoenporn also commented that her most valuable experience was building strong friendships during the endless practices. The group behind the show, Thai Smakom, is a welcoming community that provides social, cultural, and educational resources to its members, UCLA as a whole and Thai society in both America and Thailand. More information is available on http://www.thaismakombruins.com.

Amy Ta