Third International Conference on Communication & Media Studies

Abstract

On the 13th of October 2016, Thailand and the world lost a great man, King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Thailand has recently completed a one-year mourning period following his death. This research studies the creation of a live event designed to express loyalty towards the late King. The areas of study are: idea generation, interpretation, and communication of the message of “appreciation for the king”. “Even though we are in sorrow and tears are in our faces, our beloved Thailand and the monarchy must continue,” noted the Thai Prime Minister during an appearance broadcast on all Thai television channels. “Do not let the death derail his majesty’s determination to see his kingdom prosper, the people live in blessedness, and be kind to each other” he continued. This research is divided into three parts: production and management, creative and performance communication, and design production. As the sender, the creators a of a live event about the King and the mourning period have many factors to consider including the appropriate modes of expression in Thai ceremony, culture, and tradition, and also the fact that people were sad and it was a sensitive time. The main message of the event was thankfulness, respect, and deep gratitude toward King Rama IX. The results show that audiences, made up of both Thais and foreigners, felt part of the live event, demonstrated their appreciation with tears, and showed their respect toward the King of Thailand.