by

Cambodia Dance

People in Cambodia use dance to show the divine power, celebrate the social events, and create laughter in daily life. Cambodian dance can be divided into three different categories: Khmer Classical Dance, Folk Dance, and Vernacular Dance.

Khmer Classical Dance:

This form of dance is also known by a name in English called “Royal Ballet of Cambodia”, and it is listed in UNESCO’s Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity in 2008. This dance was performed only for royalty meaning  the “dances of royal wealth”.

Khmer classical dance is believed to derive from Indian court dance, which traces its origins to the apsaras(see pic1) of Hindu mythology, heavenly female nymphs who were born to dance for the gods. The traditions of Thailand and Java (in Indonesia) also influenced the music and dance of Cambodia.

Depiction of apsaras dancing, Temple Bayon, 12th century, in the city of Angkor Thom

Pic1: Depiction of apsaras dancing, Temple Bayon, 12th century, in the city of Angkor Thom

Over the history of Cambodia, role of Royal Palace’s dancers have become symbols of the King’s prestige. After the signing of the 1863 Protectorate Treaty, the French, who among many other things controlled the country’s finances, tried to reduce the number of palace dancers in order to lessen the King’s prestige. In the 1930s, the French subsidized the private troupe of Princess Wongat Say Sangvann, which performed for tourists, calling it the “one and only true” troupe. But after King Norodom Sihanouk acceded to the throne in 1941, his mother Queen Sisowath Kossamak found ways to reestablish the royal troupe’s ascendancy. In support of her son, Queen Kossamak transformed performances so that the royal troupe could best serve Cambodia’s image nationally and abroad. She shortened the length of the dance programs, had pure dance pieces followed by dramatic or comic works, and added musical interludes.

However, the tradition of dance, last for over a millennium, was almost lost in the Cambodian genocide, when the Khmer Rouge targeted those involved in the dance and “imposed a massive cultural forgetting”. Khmer classical dance suffered a huge blow during the Khmer Rouge regime when many dancers were killed because classical dance was thought as of an aristocratic institution. Although 90 percent of all Cambodian classical artists perished between 1975 and 1979 after the fall of the Khmer Rouge, those who did survive wandered out from hiding, found one another, and formed “colonies” in order to revive their sacred traditions.*

*(Reference: Earth in Flower – The Divine Mystery of the Cambodian Dance Drama by Paul Cravath)

Khmer classical dancers use silent movements and gestures to tell a story. Dancers do not speak or sing; they dance with a slight smile and never open their mouths.(see pic2) Khmer classical dance can be compared to French ballet in that it requires years of practice and stretching at a young age so the limbs become very flexible.

silent movement

Pic 2:silent movement

In classical Cambodian dance, women, dressed in brightly colored costumes with elaborate headdresses (also see pic2), perform slow, graceful movements accompanied by a percussive ensemble known as the pinpeat. Pinpeat orchestras include drums, gongs, and bamboo xylophones. (see pic3)

Pinpeat orchestras

Pic3: Pinpeat orchestras

The way Khmer classical dance communicate with audience is very complicated. Different position of the arm and the position of the hand relative to the arm can also express different meaning. Besides hand gestures are gestures which are more specific to their meaning, such as that which is used to represent laughing or flying. These other gestures are performed in different manners depending on which type of character is played.

In addition to the renowned graceful hand gesture(see pic4) and stunning costumes, the Khmer Classical Dance, has been closely associated with the Khmer court for over one thousand years. Performances would traditionally accompany royal ceremonies and observances such as coronations, marriages, funerals or Khmer holidays. This art form is highly cherished by many Cambodians.

Pic4: hand gesture of Khmer Classical Dance

Pic4: hand gesture of Khmer Classical Dance

Infused with a sacred and symbolic role, the dance embodies the traditional values of refinement, respect and spirituality. Its repertory perpetuates the legends associated with the origins of the Khmer people. Consequently, Cambodians have long esteemed this tradition as the emblem of Khmer culture. Four distinct character types exist in the classical repertory: Neang (woman), Neayrong ( man), Yeak (giant), and Sva (monkey). Each possesses distinctive colours, costumes, makeup and masks. An orchestra accompanies the dance, and a female chorus provides a running commentary on the plot, highlighting the emotions mimed by the dancers, who were considered the kings’ messengers to the gods and to the ancestors.

Classical Cambodian Ballet: Apsara

Folk dance:

Folk dances play a role of performing art to entertain the audience. Khmer folk are fast-paced, and the movements and gestures are not as stylized as Khmer classical dance. Folk dances mostly are about love or the story about animals. The dancers wear costumes that portray ordinary people character, such as farmers, peasants, and tribe leaders. The elements of folk dance diversify profoundly by different area and local cultures. The most famous of all, Robam Trot, is mainly performed during the Cambodian New Year. The Dance got its history along a legend about a hunter and deer.

Vernacular dance:

In Cambodia, vernacular dance (or social dance) is the dance performed at social gatherings. Some of these dances are heavily influenced by the traditional dances of Laos. But rom kbach, for example, take heavily from the classical dance of the royal court. Rom kbach is a simple dance which uses hand gesture similar to that of classical dance and rom kbach song also utilize the melodies of classical dance songs and combine them with traditional Khmer and Western instruments.

Other social dances from around the world have had an impact on Cambodian social cultures include the Cha-Cha,Bolero, and the Madison. Such dances are often performed at Cambodian wedding receptions and banquets.

Yosuke and Tan-Chi

21,737 thoughts on “Cambodia Dance”

  1. When it comes to enhancing email efficiency, AOL Mail Support provides professional assistance to optimize your email experience. Their team of experts is well-equipped to address any concerns or issues you may encounter. Whether it’s configuring your account settings, troubleshooting technical glitches, or maximizing the functionality of AOL Mail, their guidance ensures smooth operations. With their deep understanding of the platform, they can provide tailored solutions to enhance your email efficiency.
    https://medium.com/@stark07274/simplifying-aol-mail-support-your-comprehensive-guide-4bb0f2390901

  2. Tahapan pertama Mendaftar Kuliah yaitu dengan pengisian data diri dan memilih program studi yang kamu inginkan. Kamu juga akan mengisi dokumen pelengkap agar kami segera memproses kebutuhan persiapan kuliahmu.

  3. Our SMM Panel service offers the expertise of a devoted team of social media marketing specialists, supplying exceptional solutions to aid individuals and companies boost their digital visibility, reaching their intended crowd, and accomplishing their advertising aims.
    At our SMM panel service, we comprehend the power of social media platforms and their influence in today’s digital realm. We are committed to assisting our clients to make the most of these networks effectively to construct brand recognition, connect with their audience, and promote conversions. Whatever your status – an influencer, a small business proprietor, or a marketing firm – we possess the resources and tactics to help you with your social media marketing efforts.

  5. Daftar Slot Terpercaya pada dasarnya sama dengan Slot Gacor online lainnya, hanya perlu mencari bagian pendaftaran di website tersebut. Bambu99 Adalah Tempat Yang Tepat Anda Kunjungi Karna Situs Web Kami Menjanjikan Kemenangan Untuk Setiap Member nya.

  7. Welcome to Join Slot Online Indonesia on the Gaspoll88 Site Indonesia’s No. 1 Trusted Online Slot Agent, Gaspoll88 Is a Bookie Agent for the Thailand Gacor 2023 Slot Game which has lots of prizes you can get.

  9. Game Slot Merupakan situs slot gacor mudah menang dan maxwin hingga jackpot, pilihan resmi dan terpercaya para bettor Indonesia 2023 online yang menjadi salah satu jenis permainan Judi Online Slot yang begitu seru dan terbilang banyak dimainkan oleh setiap slotter di Indonesia.

  11. Dewataspin merupakan situs Game permainan slot online yang menyediakan kemenangann di setiap permainannya dan pelayanan terbaik di antara situs penyedia slot online lainnya.

  16. I am truly getting a charge out of perusing your elegantly composed articles. It would seem that you spend a considerable measure of exertion and time on your blog. I have bookmarked it and I am anticipating perusing new articles. Keep doing awesome. I’m not that much of a internet reader to be honest but your sites really nice, keep it up! I’ll go ahead and bookmark your website to come back later. I needed to leave a little remark to help you and wish you a decent continuation. Wishing you the good luck for all your blogging endeavors. What is great respecting is dealing with instead of depending on.

    메이저놀이터

  17. We have heard Psy’s song called Gangnam Style, and he is a singer in Korea. There are many good songs. I hope you can listen to it, too. I like your writing, so I recommend a good 메이저사이트

  18. I completely agree that education plays a vital role in shaping our lives. ABM agriculture business management is a productive and successful method for managing the complex operations of a present-day agricultural business. It includes the integration of innovation, financial arranging, and strategic decision-making to guarantee productivity and sustainability.

  19. Thank you for sharing this informative article which expresses all the vital points. When it comes to finding the Best Franchise, there are several critical variables to consider. To begin with and foremost, do your investigation. Check out online audits and appraisals from past clients to get each dry cleaner offer.

  22. The Best Compendium Of Knowledge About Online Shopping

    As time progresses, more and more consumers are getting comfortable with doing their shopping online.누누티빙 With a little guidance and experience, virtually anyone can hunt down the perfect item they want and find a great deal on it using the Internet. Online shopping can be extraordinarily beneficial so read on to obtain the information that you need to know.

    When shopping online, choose the best shipping policy

  26. We’ve been focusing on a few of the blog entries on your website lately, so we’d want to take a moment to have a look at your blogging strategy, for instance. I added it to my list of favorite websites and plan to visit it again soon. Please look over my website in more detail and let me know your thoughts.
    West Bengal Call Girls

  27. Thank you for sharing your valuable and useful blog with us. If we talk about your this blog then I must say this blog is very useful and informative, but I also want to say that I like each blog, so please share your previous blog URL too. If we talk about ourselves then I would like to say to you that we live in Santa Clara, USA, and provide online assignment help on different-different topics like MBA Assignment Help , java assignment help, and others.
    Thank You

  29. “Thank you for your kind words! “Craft a compelling Statement of Purpose SOP For MBA Admission to showcase your aspirations, achievements, and unique qualities. Our expert guide will help you create a winning SOP that impresses admissions committees and maximizes your chances of securing a spot in your dream MBA program.”

  31. I recently noticed your website back i are generally looking through which on a daily basis. You’ve got a loads of information at this site so i actually like your look to the web a tad too. Maintain the best show results! 토토사이트

  32. A fascinating dialog is value remark. I feel that it is best to compose more on this matter, it may not be an unthinkable theme however generally people are insufficient to chat on such subjects. To the following. Salud. 먹튀신고

  33. Great article! I really appreciate the depth and clarity with which you’ve presented the information. If you are looking for Best physio therapist then contact Mainstreet Pt is one the Best Orthopedic Physical Therapy they are best in this field.

  35. یکی از کارهای مهم بعد از خرید ماشین، تهیه بیمه بدنه و بیمه شخص ثالث است. بدنه ماشین است. با خرید بیمه ماشین، خیالتان بابت تصادف و خسارت‌های مختلف راحت می‌شود و بدون نگرانی در سطح شهر رانندگی می‌کنید.
    مزایای بیمه ماشین قسطی

  36. Waterproofing is the process of making a structure impervious to water. It involves the use of materials and techniques that prevent water from penetrating the surface or seeping into the interior of a building. Waterproofing is essential in preventing damage to the structure caused by water intrusion, which can lead to rot, mold, and other problems.

    Visit: Waterproofing Services in Pune

  37. It is a completely interesting blog publish.I often visit your posts for my project’s help about Diwali Bumper Lottery and your super writing capabilities genuinely go away me taken aback 오피사이트

  38. Waterproofing is the process of making a structure impervious to water. It involves the use of materials and techniques that prevent water from penetrating the surface or seeping into the interior of a building. Waterproofing is essential in preventing damage to the structure caused by water intrusion, which can lead to rot, mold, and other problems.

    Visit: Waterproofing Services in Pune

  40. Waterproofing is the process of making a structure impervious to water. It involves the use of materials and techniques that prevent water from penetrating the surface or seeping into the interior of a building. Waterproofing is essential in preventing damage to the structure caused by water intrusion, which can lead to rot, mold, and other problems.

    Visit: https://www.weatherfighter.com/

  45. A design like yours with a few simple adjustements would really make my blog shine. Please let me know where you got your design. Thanks

    먹튀검증

  46. Experience the convenience and peace of mind with secure access to your McAfee account. Our user-friendly Mcafee sign-in process ensures that safeguarding your digital world is both simple and efficient. By securely logging in to your McAfee account, you gain complete control over your security settings, allowing you to tailor them to your unique needs. Whether it’s managing your devices, monitoring your subscription, or accessing valuable security features, our streamlined sign-in experience ensures quick and hassle-free access.

    https://contactfor-guide.com/mcafee-sign-in/

  48. In the digital era, safeguarding your online presence is paramount. McAfee com Activate offers an effortless and comprehensive solution for ultimate defense. With just one click, you can activate McAfee’s powerful suite of security tools, providing a robust shield against cyber threats. McAfee com Activate ensures real-time protection against viruses, malware, ransomware, and other malicious attacks. Its advanced features, such as firewall protection, secure browsing, and identity theft prevention, create multiple layers of defense for your devices and personal information.

    https://simplyassist.us/mcafee-com-activate/

  49. When it comes to safeguarding your digital realm, Norton.com Setup provides a seamless solution for ultimate defense. Setting up Norton is the first step towards comprehensive protection. With its user-friendly interface and intuitive setup process, Norton com setup ensures that even the most complex security measures are easily implemented. From antivirus and anti-malware to advanced firewall and identity theft prevention, Norton offers a robust suite of tools to keep your devices and personal information secure.

    https://simplyassist.us/norton-com-setup/

  50. Getting The Best Deal When Shopping Online

    There are so many different options for online shopping that it can be hard to choose! Some people only purchase items like books or home decoration items online, while others like to buy clothes and other wearable items.유흥알바 No matter your preference, you can have a great online shopping experience!

    Avoid shopping on sites that aren’t familiar or have no online user reviews. No matter how much you might want to order their merchandise or how low their prices are, you just don’t know what you’re getting into. Reserve your online shopping dollars for the well-known and trusted sites that keep your info safe

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *