On the 18th and 21st of March 2025, students from Shrewsbury International School Bangkok Riverside hosted an immersive blind theatre production: The Himmapan Express, Tales of Siam. This experience aimed to address the adversities faced by visually impaired individuals and challenge any prejudicial attitudes revolving their potential, by removing the audience's reliance on sight and instead used their taste, smell, hear and touch senses instead in order to promote inclusivity and foster empathy towards those who are visually impaired.
This event was honored by the presence of Mr. Torpong Selanon, a committee member of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission, Mr. Ekkamol Phaetthayanan, President of the Blind Association of Thailand, and a group of teachers from the Bangkok School for the Blind, who joined to watch the performance.
Pat Lochanakosin, Founder and Director of the "Empatheatre for the Blind" initiative, states "This opportunity to direct a cast of both visually impaired and sighted individuals was really exciting to me, as it allowed us to provide a platform for disadvantaged individuals to creatively express unique thoughts, emotions, and narratives through drama. We wanted to break down barriers by making theatre much more accessible to blind actors and audiences. Watching our mixed ensemble's hard work, dedication, and collaboration come to life onstage was truly a gift which keeps on giving, and we really hope our production has built the foundations to a truly diverse and equitable theatre scene for the future."
Chananan Piriyalertsak (Aira), Producer and Stage manager, shared, "Coordinating this production was both a challenge and a deeply rewarding experience. Ensuring that both visually impaired and sighted cast members had equal access to rehearsal materials, stage cues, and performance support required creativity and adaptability from our entire team. I am incredibly proud of our cast and crew for their dedication, and I hope this performance paves the way for more accessible and inclusive theatre in the future."
Natcha Swanpitak (Ivy), director of marketing and outreach, said "This theater performance was honored by the presence of many esteemed organizations, including the NBTC, the Blind Association of Thailand, the Foundation for the Blind, the Bangkok School for the Blind, the management team and teachers of Shrewsbury Riverside School, as well as numerous students and interested parents. Both days were fully booked with over 200 attendees in total. We hope this performance will inspire all viewers to reflect more on the importance of equality and fairness."