Entertainers go abroad as nightlife struggles during mourning period

It’s not often that Chalasin Duangsupa drops in to strum his guitar at his little coffee shop in the capital’s Prachaniwet area.

But like other musicians and entertainers suddenly without gigs to play as the nation takes a somber turn to mourn King Bhumibol, he was there this week with his two daughters to help out his wife, who runs the cafe inside Matichon Academy.

I completely understand the situation and am willing to cooperate,” Chalasin said. “It’s also hard for us to perform. We can wait until the grief is passed.”

With over 20 years experience performing at nightclubs, the 35-year-old musician said he might lose upward of 30,000 baht this month as four of his regular venues have stopped live music and bookings he had were canceled since Thursday.

Chalasin is among singers and musicians used to scraping by who have lost their jobs and incomes during the 30-day mourning period. Although the government backed off its insistence there be no entertainment for a month and said it was okay behind closed doors, many venues have refrained from entertainment out of respect or concern of appearing disrespectful.

Some entertainers who can get gigs abroad have left Thailand for work in the meantime. Malaysia, Singapore, Japan and Dubai are among destinations for Thai singers and musicians.

Full Story – Khaosod English

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