Thai Public Fund Backs Show Pow Cultural Series for International Influencers
A Thai public fund is backing "Show Pow," a docureality series featuring international influencers learning traditional Thai crafts and culture from local experts across provinces, with content spanning television, online platforms, and com
A Phi Ta Khon mask, a ho'm cloth, or a familiar reed pipe sound—each carries stories of people and local wisdom. While Thais may view these as familiar cultural artifacts, foreigners often wonder how they're made, what they mean, and how they connect to communities. This curiosity can deepen our own appreciation for what's near us.
This is the concept behind "Show Pow," a series blending documentary knowledge with reality entertainment, or Docureality. Hosted by Gelue Kitti Chiewwongkul alongside foreign-speaking influencers who speak Thai and are interested in Thai culture, participants learn from local experts and complete tasks so viewers discover stories through their experiences.
The project is funded by the Broadcast, Television and Telecommunication Research and Development Fund for Public Benefit (BTRC), operated by Sawasdee Media Company, covering television programs, online content, and entertainment activities. It aims to share Thai culture, way of life, and wisdom with both Thai and foreign audiences.
The appeal lies in letting people from other cultures learn firsthand. Program activities include crafting Phi Ta Khon masks in Loei Province, designing fashion from local fabrics and dyeing ho'm cloth in Phrae Province, and making and playing reed pipes in Roi Et Province. Each activity lets community experts pass on skills while explaining the meaning and origins of inherited wisdom.
Another example is the story of Ban Sam Chong Nuea community in Phang Nga Province, where the program covers kayaking through mangrove forests, community life, food, and naturally dyed tie-dyed fabric from Khao Khong Forest. These experiences show how natural resources connect to the knowledge, craftsmanship, and daily lives of people in the area.
"Show Pow" also covers contemporary culture and creative works by Thais, such as street art and art exhibitions in Bangkok, Thai films, and games developed by Thais. It links 14 soft power industries with eight lifestyle interests so viewers can explore stories through their own passions—food, crafts, art, health, and the digital world.
The title "Show Pow" reflects both cultural power and pride in being Thai. Foreign participants' perspectives help us reconsider what's familiar and how inherited wisdom can inspire new creations.
The BTRC's support extends through "Show Pow Playground" activities, which will include exhibitions, panel discussions, and workshops. These create spaces for experts and foreigners with Thailand experience to exchange views, while participants gain skills and learn how to develop traditional knowledge into creative products.
"Show Pow" positions media as a meeting place for wisdom holders, participants, and viewers, aiming to turn entertainment into understanding and let local stories inspire future creation. What Thais once took for granted may become something they want to learn and pass on with pride.
Interested viewers can follow "Show Pow" hosted by Gelue Kitti Chiewwongkul and foreign influencers across 12 episodes of 25 minutes each on One31 Channel.
