Nai The Comedian Speaks Out on Likay Theater Fire
Nai The Comedian addresses the suspicious fire at a Likay theater run by headman Nong A, causing damage worth over a hundred thousand baht, while awaiting forensic results.

Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- Nai The Comedian speaks out following a devastating fire at a local Likay theater managed by headman Nong A.
- The ignition point lacked electrical wiring, sparking strong suspicions of intentional arson.
- Estimated damages to costumes and equipment exceed one hundred thousand baht.
- He urges the public to respect hardworking artists rather than resorting to sabotage over noise complaints.
Following a tragic fire incident that shocked traditional Thai performing arts circles, Thai entertainer Nai The Comedian has come forward to share details after directly consulting with the affected troupe leader, Nong A. He stated that investigators have not yet reached a definitive conclusion on whether the incident was an intentional act of arson or an accident, as they are still awaiting official forensic results from the police and forensic science division.
Nai The Comedian discussed the suspicious nature of the fire, noting that according to his discussion with Nong A, the flames originated behind a canvas curtain where there were no electrical wires whatsoever. If an electrical short circuit had occurred, it should have started on the main structure of the theater rather than behind the curtain. This anomaly led the troupe members to suspect that someone might have intentionally set the fire, though authorities have yet to confirm this theory.

Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
The troupe had previously encountered minor friction regarding noise levels, with locals asking them to lower the volume of their sound system. However, the troupe had always been cooperative, and they were scheduled to pack up and move away from the location in just three days anyway. This timing raised questions about why such an incident occurred so close to their departure. Around 5:30 AM on the day of the incident, people inside the theater heard a motorcycle approaching closely—unusual given the distance from the road—though it remains unclear who the rider was during the early morning almsgiving hours.
Regarding the extent of the damage, Nai The Comedian estimated that the lost performance costumes amount to roughly one hundred thousand baht. Items near the ignition point were completely melted and destroyed by intense heat. Fortunately, the troupe had only brought a few selected costumes needed for short-term performances, keeping the majority of their wardrobe safely stored at home.
"If this really was arson, and you didn't like the Likay performance, I think you should have just told them to move out. Tell the landowners, tell the abbot, tell them the performance is causing a disturbance... If you don't like them, don't watch them, and don't bully them. These are people trying to make an honest living."
Nai The Comedian
This incident sheds light on the vulnerabilities faced by traditional traveling performers who must constantly adapt to various local communities while navigating interpersonal conflicts regarding noise and local space usage. Artists utilizing public platforms to voice their struggles highlights the importance of social support for grassroots creators, even as formal investigations into the cause of the disaster remain ongoing by local authorities.
Addressing criticism that he spoke out prematurely for attention, Nai The Comedian clarified that he thoroughly discussed the matter with Nong A and obtained permission before posting the video and photos. His sole intention was to act as a megaphone for a lesser-known artist and discourage community bullying against honest workers.
Source: Thairath Entertainment
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