To study the rod puppet performance of Chucherdchamnansil troupe in Samut Songkhram province, 2001 to 2002 including its historical development, form, major components, performance and manipulating technic. Research methodology is tased upon documentary review, interviewing of experts, observation and practice with the troupe head. Research finds that the puppets have been performed since Ayudhya period until today. Hun Luang, Hun Thai-Jin, Hun Krabok and Hun Lakon Lek are four kinds of Thai puppetry now. Hun Krabok started in Thailand around 1892. Chucherdchamnansil troupe started in 1952 at Samut Songkhram province by Mr. Wong Roumsuk for living. Puppet dolls of Chucherdchamnansil troupe are larger than general size, made of softwood painted and decorated with gold leaves. Ear pieces are made of leather. Shoulder wooden piece is extended to the chest. Performance stresses comical devices, which reflects in manipulating technics. Many special technics were created by this troupe. The troupe has five original plays Mongkutphet Mongkuykaew, Rakakaew, Gumangayasit, Srisuriyong and Kontotong. Two most popular stories today are Rakakaew and Praapaimanee. The performance starts with paying homage to the guru and deities followed by music prelude and dance prelude, then a play proper is shown and ended with a farewell piece performed by the clowns. Pipat music accompanies throughout the performance. This Hun troupe performs on all occasions. Main objective of Chucherdchamnansil troupe preserver, Mrs Kunnika Kawon, now is for preservation the performance as a cultural heritage of Samut Songkhram province.
