Exploring the integration of cultural roots in contemporary Thai actor training using the Delphi method

This study examines the integration of selected Thai traditional performing arts techniques into contemporary actor training in Thailand. Despite the country’s rich heritage of classical and folk performance, theatre education remains dominated by Western models, with traditional forms often marginalised or viewed as incompatible with modern performance contexts. Employing the Delphi method, the research engaged ten expert panellists across two rounds: in-depth interviews followed by a structured questionnaire assessing the relevance and adaptability of six traditional techniques. These included breathwork, exercises from classical and folk performance, movement sequences, folk dance improvisation, and traditional verse singing. Only breathwork achieved full consensus, with all experts agreeing on its benefits for cultivating mindfulness, emotional regulation, concentration, and presence in performance. While the other techniques did not meet the statistical criteria for consensus, expert commentary indicated conditional support depending on context and pedagogical approach. Panellists emphasised the importance of the teacher’s role as facilitator, the learner’s attitude, and engaging with the cultural essence of traditional forms rather than replicating surface aesthetics. They also recommended integrating body, voice, singing, and storytelling, which are central to Thai performance traditions. Such a multidimensional approach supports holistic and embodied training suited to the interdisciplinary demands of contemporary performance.