The University of Phayao (UP) continues to strengthen Thailand’s cultural soft power through higher education by showcasing creative performing arts and fostering student development on a national platform. Led by Dr. Vutthichai Chaiyarinkam, Vice President for Student Quality, together with university executives, faculty members, and students from the Music and Dance Program, School of Architecture and Fine Arts, the University of Phayao participated in the 24th Higher Education Arts and Culture Festival held at Phranakhon Rajabhat University.
The festival was organized under the theme “Tracing Artistic Heritage to the Royal Capital: 134 Years of Thai Teacher Education Foundations” and brought together higher education institutions from across the country to present and exchange artistic and cultural works.
On this occasion, the University of Phayao presented a creative Thai dance performance entitled “Chui Chai Fah Mui” (Performance Code: U028), staged on Thursday, 5 February 2026, at Stage 3, Phikanesuan Auditorium, Phranakhon Rajabhat University. The performance aimed to communicate the university’s identity, values, and cultural heritage to a wider public audience.
“Chui Chai Fah Mui” is a contemporary creative dance piece that reflects the identity, pride, and spirit of the University of Phayao through symbolic storytelling. The performance synthesizes key institutional symbols, including Phra Phuttha Phuchakarak, the Buddha image of the University of Phayao; King Naresuan the Great, a spiritual and historical symbol of leadership and courage; the Sataphan (seven-tiered base) featured in the university emblem; the University of Phayao academic gown, representing student pride; and the Fah Mui flower, the university’s symbolic flower, signifying growth, quality, and global recognition of its graduates.
The performance is presented in the “Chui Chai” northern Thai style, blending classical Thai dance with Lanna performing arts in a harmonious and contemporary form. The choreography is structured into three segments: the Rua Kheang opening, the Chui Chai and Mae Sri vocal sections, and a fast-paced closing sequence with northern Thai musical accents, effectively conveying cultural identity in a modern context.
Participation in the 24th Higher Education Arts and Culture Festival underscores the University of Phayao’s role in promoting Thai arts and culture as a form of national soft power, while integrating cultural preservation with experiential learning. The initiative reflects the university’s commitment to nurturing students through real-world artistic practice and contributing to the sustainable preservation and advancement of Thai cultural heritage within the higher education sector