“Mother of Water” is a mixed-media performance.

A multimedia performance-art piece advocates acceptance of those infected with HIV

Like many women, Sonoko Prow opted for an HIV test when she became pregnant.

Her experiences at the clinic, as well as the worry she faced while waiting for the results, inspired the director of the Khandha Arts'n Theatre group, to come up with "For a Little Less Noise Mae Nam" ("Mother of Water") a drama that combines "butoh" dance and mixed-media performance art, which is being staged next weekend at Patravadi Theatre.

Sonoko has avoided the cliched stories of prostitutes and homosexuals and bases her story instead on a member of the middle class, a group who tend to believe they are in monogamous relationships and therefore less at risk.

"That's not the case. I have many middleclass friends who are sero-positive," she says.

The performance focuses on the inner conflict of a mother infected by HIV,and how she copes with society.

The river is used as a symbol.

The production was created in Cambodia while Sonoko was attending the Mekong Performing Laboratory project sponsored by the Philippines Educational Association.

Last year's play featured Cambodian actors but this time, Sonoko will be working with actors from Chiang Mai and Bangkok, Thai shadow-puppetry artist Chularat Inthorn and Dutch motion picture artist Maurice Spees.

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"For a Little Less Noise Mae Nam" performs on August 2 and 3 at Patravadi Theatre, Soi Wat Rakang at 7.30pm. Tickets are Bt600 and Bt400 (50 per cent discount for students). Call (02) 412 72878, (02) 833 5555 or visit www.TotalReseravation.com.

>> The play then moves to Chiang Mai University's Art Museum on August 9 and 10 at 7pm. Tickets are Bt150, Bt100 for student and Bt80 for groups.

>> On August 12, Mother's Day, there'll be a special performance of "Mae Nam" at the King's Mother Hall, Mae Fah Luang University in Chiang Rai plus a workshop. Call (053) 916 000, (053) 916 005 or (081) 345 9360.