Operatic Event of the Year: 'Madana' to be Performed 25 Years Since Debut
25 years since its debut on Thailand’s opera stage, “Madana” will once again grace the Main Hall of the Thailand Cultural Centre on May 7, 2025, at 7:30 PM.
The opera was composed by Somtow Sucharitkul, and inspired by King Rama VI’s “Madanabadha,” the 2025 remake of the legendary opera coincides with the celebrations of important anniversaries: the 100th anniversary of His Majesty King Rama VI’s reign, the 50th anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Indrasakdisachi, the 70th birthday of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, the 40th anniversary of the National Artist Program, and the 25th anniversary of Opera Siam.
“Madana,” A Grand Opera in Three Acts, is presented by Opera Siam and the Department of Cultural Promotion and will star Thai opera stars and an international cast.
The titular character, the charming were-rose Madana, will be played by Nadlada Thamtanakom, who started her career as part of the chorus of Opera Siam before moving on to leading roles as a regular member of the Flanders Opera in Belgium. Rising mezzo-soprano star Kridhima Siriwatanakamol will be playing the scheming handmaiden Arali and the celestial Sudeva.
Other notable cast members include Barbara Zion from Opera Siam, Kenneth Tarver from the Metropolitan Opera, and Damian Whiteley from Zurich Opera. The opera is choreographed by UNESCO traditional dance expert Darren Royston, conducted by Opera Siam resident conductor Trisdee na Patalung.
The opera will be sung entirely in English, with Thai and English subtitles available.
Tickets to the grand opera are available via Ticketmelon through donations. These VIP Donor tickets are priced at THB1,200 (Gold Donor) and THB4,000 (Platinum Donor). General admission is by invitation and on a first-come, first-served basis.
Applications for an invitation are made by contacting Opera Siam through LINE and email.
Follow Opera Siam on their Facebook page for more information and updates. You may also visit their website for more information.
Location: Main Hall, Thailand Cultural Centre, 14 Thiam Ruam Mit Road, Bangkok, Bangkok City 10310
Date & Time: May 7, 2025, 7:30 PM
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