THE RETREAT KOH CHANG HOSTED THE GRAND FESTIVAL OF OPERA - THE FIRST FULL SCALE OPERA IN THAILAND TO BE HELD OUTDOORS UNDER THE STARS

Two nights of opera performances including music from iconic film scores and the celebrated opera The Silent Prince by Thai Director and Composer - Somtow Sucharitkul

Koh Chang, Thailand, 5 December 2025:  Under a sky glittering with stars and lit by a radiant moon, The Retreat Koh Chang proudly staged The Grand Festival of Opera in partnership with Opera Siam on November 29 and 30, marking the first full-scale outdoor opera performance ever held in Thailand. Now in its second year of hosting open-air opera events, The Retreat elevated the experience this year with an operatic production of unprecedented scale, set against the natural soundtrack of the island's gentle ocean waves.

The Silent Prince Opera was written by renowned Thai novelist, composer, and filmmaker Somtow Sucharitkul, with musical direction by Trisdee Na Patalung, the festival's orchestral scores were brought to life over two nights by Siam Sinfonietta, Thailand's award-winning youth orchestra.

For the opening night, The Magic of Movies, guests were treated to iconic film scores from Disney classics and The Sound of Music, as well as Andrew Lloyd Webber masterpieces, and the theme songs from popular movies and TV shows such as Taxi Driver, and Game of Thrones, as well as a special festive rendition of O Holy Night. Joining the event were seven world acclaimed guest opera vocalists who performed at The Grand Festival of Opera event which added star power and brilliance to both evenings.

The main gala performance showcased Somtow Sucharitkul's acclaimed opera The Silent Prince, conducted by Trisdee Na Patalung. Inspired by the Buddha's journey to enlightenment, this profound work from the DasJati based on the ten lives of the Buddha and is the most ambitious work in music and theatre history which blends spirituality, storytelling, and Thai culture. Presented for the first time on an outdoor stage at The Retreat Koh Chang, The Silent Prince captivated audiences with its universal emotion, stunning colourful costumes and a powerful connection to Thailand's artistic heritage.

The principal cast included Potprecha Cholvijarn (the Prince), Nadlad Thamtanakom (Queen of Heaven), John Tneoh (King of Kashi), Kridhima Siriwattanakamol (Queen of Kashi), Kittin Suchato (Royal Attendant), Jirut Khamlangghan (Spirit of Beauty), and Australian bass operatic star Damian John Whiteley (King of Heaven). 

Owned and operated by the Thai Teeraniti family, The Retreat Koh Chang continues to spotlight the island as a destination for culture as well as relaxation.

“Through our partnership with Opera Siam, we aim to position Koh Chang not only as a sanctuary for nature and tranquillity but also as an emerging hub for Thai performing arts,” said Mate Teeraniti. “All proceeds from The Grand Festival of Opera event will be donated to the Siam Opera Foundation. Hosting an event of this scale reflects our commitment to making culture accessible to a wider audience, as well as nurturing young Thai talent through Siam Sinfonietta, and creating a space for audiences to experience the transformative energy of live performance in our unique beachside setting.”

The Grand Festival of Opera was proudly supported by Robert Mondavi Winery, Mr Cru, Suntory, TRAT Amazing Thailand and Jagota.

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To access the images of The Grand Festival of Opera event visit this link   HERE

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Donna Campbell

Campbell PR

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About The Retreat Koh Chang

A proud member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World and the Condé Nast Johansens Luxury Hotels Collection, The Retreat Koh Chang is an intimate hideaway situated between Kai Bae Beach and a peaceful fishing village on the island of Koh Chang. Featuring 38 elegantly designed rooms and suites, the resort blends modern comfort with natural serenity — offering an inspiring destination where culture, creativity, and nature meet.

About Opera Siam

Founded in 1998 by Somtow Sucharitkul, Opera Siam is Thailand's leading opera company, known for presenting both classic and original works that reflect the country's artistic identity. With a mission to make opera accessible to Thai audiences, Opera Siam continues to nurture homegrown talent and expand the boundaries of performing arts in the region.