On October 4, 2025, Ms. Somjai Taphaopong, Consul General of Thailand in New York, was invited to attend a staged reading of “Chef May & Bam”, a theatrical collaboration between Thai Theatre Foundation US and Yangtze Repertory Theatre, held at Theater Lab in New York City. The play reflects the uniqueness and charm of Thai cuisine, inspired by a popular culinary reality show, and offers fresh perspectives on the art of Thai cooking. It was written by Ann Chunharakchote, directed by Nana Dakin, and performed by Thai artists led by Pacha Chantree and Heen Sasithorn, together with a team of emerging Thai creatives based in New York.

 

The Consul General, representatives from Team Thailand in New York, and the Thai Cultural Center of New York attended the event to support and encourage the new generation of Thai artists who play a key role in producing high-quality theatrical works on the international stage. The play was co-presented by the Thai Theatre Foundation (TTF), founded by a new generation of Thai creatives and led by Keng S. Meateanuwat, Executive Director of TTF US, a strong supporter of performing arts collaboration between Thailand and the United States.

 

Earlier in May 2025, TTF collaborated with the Royal Thai Consulate-General in New York to host “Thai Next: Glamorous – Glorious – Global” at Lavan Chelsea, showcasing the exceptional works of Thai artists and emerging Thai talents in New York inspired by Thai art and culture — an event that was met with resounding success.