Big presents at BIPAM

Big (Raksak Kongseng) is an Arts Administration Graduate student who is at the tail end of earning their degree.  Big was chosen to present at the Bangkok International Performing Arts Meeting (BIPAM).

Bangkok Theatre Network is Thailand’s largest  platform for performing artists and BIPAM is an annual event through Bangkok Theatre Network. As an immigrant from Thailand and having moved from Seattle to Boston for BU’s graduate program, Big has had a wide range of opportunities and experiences. Most recently Big worked for the Theater Offensive in Copley Square. As a graduate from Chulalongkorn University, Department of Dramatic Arts, Big talked a lot about her background and roots in Thailand.  There is a structural deficit in Thailand that of course effects funding for the Arts.  Specifically in the theater realm, Thailand has not recognized the importance of this art form and as a result lacks funding for programs.

Having been selected to present at BIPAM, Big gained a lot of confidence in herself and her ability to be successful in the art world. When Big arrived back in Thailand for the conference, she was surprised to be presenting along side professors.  Money is an important topic everywhere right now, but especially in Thailand where there is such a severe economic crisis.  Big’s presentation focused on fundraising; something Thailand is just becoming acquainted with and is a potential solution for arts organizations to survive in Thailand. After presenting at the conference, a former professor from Big’s undergraduate program asked Big if she was interested in a job at the University. Big was humbled by this offer and realized the work she has done in the BU Arts Administration program would lead to many amazing job opportunities. Check out the panel discussion page where Big participated at BIPAM here.

Now residing in New York City, Big continues to pursue opportunities with theater organizations and is taking a class at Columbia that will transfer and complete the Arts Administration Master’s Degree at BU. Big emphasized how the course structure in the Arts Admin program set her up for success for this conference as well as future job applications, interviews, and all professional environments.  To apply to BIPAM, an academic research paper with Chicago style formatting was required. Big had exactly what the application requested, and was accepted because of courses taken within the program that holds student work to a high standard and is competitive enough for real world opportunities. Big is grateful to have had this experience back in Thailand but even more grateful it was made possible by the Arts Administration team.