What was slated as a small conference at Chulalongkorn University early this month turned out to be a powerhouse gathering for the Thai entertainment industry. Sodsai, now 83, formed a group of students and lecturers with a shared interest in theatre, including Onchuma. The success of their performances would later lead to the founding of the dramatic arts department in 1971. The department has since produced a slew of renowned directors, actors and producers in the Thai entertainment industry. Asked what she's learned from a life devoted to the dramatic arts, Onchuma says: "What drama teaches us is how to be empathetic and not judgemental.

Source: Bangkok Post March 26, 2017 00:22 UTC