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

21,555 thoughts on “Cambodia Dance

  1. زانکو سرویس یکی از مجموعه های معتبر در زمینه تعمیر یخچال است که دارای تعداد بسیاری از تعمیرکاران مجرب در سرتاسر استان البرز می باشد. در نظر داشته باشید که یک تعمیرکار غیرمتخصص می تواند آسیب های جدی را به یخچال شما وارد کند. بنابراین در صورت بروز مشکل، در قدم اول تعمیرات را به یک مجموعه باکیفیت بسپارید تا ضمن کاهش هزینه ها، عیب یابی و برطرف کردن مشکل نیز در بازه زمانی کوتاه مدتی صورت گیرد. متخصصین فنی مجموعه زانکو، برای اینکه نیازی به جابجایی دستگاه به تعمیرگاه نباشد، پس از ثبت درخواست شما، در محل حاضر شده و اقدام به تعمیر دستگاه شما می کنند. برای آشنایی با خدمات مجموعه زانکو از معتبرترین نمایندگی تعمیر یخچال در کرج، در ادامه همراه ما باشید.

    نمایندگی تعمیر یخچال در کرج

  2. The cost of dental implants in Illinois can vary based on several factors. These include the number of implants needed, the type of implant, the complexity of the procedure, and additional treatments like bone grafting or extractions. On average, a single dental implant in Illinois can range from around $1,500 to $3,000 or more. However, it’s important to note that this is a general estimate, and the total cost may include expenses for consultations, diagnostic imaging, surgical fees, and the final restoration (crown, bridge, or denture) placed atop the implant. To get an accurate understanding of the cost specific to your case, consulting with a dental professional in Illinois is recommended.

  3. For a successful Norton login, you’ll require essential credentials: your registered email address and the corresponding password. This pairing serves as your primary access to your Norton account. Ensuring accuracy in the provided email and remembering your secure password is crucial. If you’ve enabled two-factor authentication, you’ll also need the secondary code generated by your chosen method. Safeguarding this information is vital to maintain the security of your account and the protection of your devices.

    https://contactfor-guide.com/norton-login/

  4. To connect with the Mcafee Customer Service number, follow a straightforward process. First, locate the official Mcafee website. On the site, search for the “Contact Us” or “Support” section. There, you’ll likely find the dedicated Mcafee Customer Service number. Take note of this number. Dial it using a phone, and follow the automated instructions or prompts to reach the appropriate department, such as technical support or billing. You might be asked to provide your registered information and the reason for your call.

    https://mcafee-actvate.com/blog/mcafee-customer-service-number/

  5. Magnificent survey, I am a noteworthy aficionado to commenting on web diaries to instruct the web diary researchers understand that they’ve added something advantageous to the web!.. 英國樓盤

  6. Activating McAfee via McAfee com activate involves several key steps to ensure robust computer security. First, visit the official website and log in to your account or create one. Enter the activation code from your purchased subscription. Choose the device you want to protect and customize your security preferences. Download the McAfee software and run the installation process. Follow prompts to complete the setup. Once installed, the software will regularly update itself for the latest protection.

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

  7. E-commerce web design holds the power to shape online shopping encounters profoundly. Intuitive navigation, clear product categorization, and search functionality enhance user ease. Aesthetic visuals, appealing layouts, and cohesive branding establish trust and professionalism. Fast loading speeds prevent frustration, while responsive design ensures a seamless experience across devices. Streamlined checkout processes with multiple payment options simplify transactions. Customer reviews and social proof build credibility. Personalization through product recommendations fosters engagement. Well-designed product pages with comprehensive information aid decision-making.

    https://ansuninternationals.com/ecommerce-web-design

  8. Great post full of useful tips! My site is fairly new and I am also having a hard time getting my readers to leave comments. Analytics shows they are coming to the site but I have a feeling “nobody wants to be first”. UK49s

  9. HP Printer Support provides a comprehensive range of solutions to address various printer-related issues. Their services encompass troubleshooting hardware problems, such as paper jams or connectivity glitches, through step-by-step guidance. They assist with software glitches, like driver installations and configuration errors, ensuring seamless functionality. HP Printer Support offers expert recommendations for optimizing print quality and addressing ink or toner concerns. They aid in resolving network connectivity issues and can guide users through wireless setup.

    https://simplyassist.us/blog/hp-printer-support-number

  10. A skilled Shopify web designer can breathe life into your e-commerce vision by translating ideas into an engaging online reality. Through expert understanding of design principles and user experience, they create visually appealing layouts that resonate with your brand identity. Customization extends to seamless navigation, intuitive product categorization, and responsive design that adapts across devices. A designer enhances functionality, optimizing checkout processes and integrating payment gateways for smooth transactions.

    https://ansuninternationals.com/blog/shopify-web-designer/

  11. I definitely enjoying every little bit of it. It is a great website and nice share. I want to thank you. Good job! You guys do a great blog, and have some great contents. Keep up the good work. I really appreciate this wonderful post that you have provided for us. I assure this would be beneficial for most of the people. 小學英文補習

  12. Hello I’m Anny Perry . I’m a 123hp printer Hp printer supportHP Printer Support offers a range of services to assist users with various printer-related issues. They provide troubleshooting guidance for common problems like printer setup, driver installation, and connectivity issues. Technical experts offer personalized solutions to enhance printer performance and resolve errors. Assistance is also available for software updates, firmware upgrades, and optimizing settings. HP Printer Support aids in diagnosing hardware problems and offers solutions for maintenance and cleaning.

  13. Excellent article plus its information and I positively bookmark to this site because here I always get an amazing knowledge as I expect. Thanks for this to share with us dse英文補習

  14. Such an extremely valuable article. Extremely fascinating to peruse this article.I might want to thank you for the endeavors you had made for composing this wonderful article. 鬼剃頭原因

  15. I have to thank you for ones time for this especially fabulous read!! I unquestionably truly loved all aspects of it and I additionally have you spared to fav to take a gander at new data in your site. 補習社

  16. The top destination management company (DMC) in Goa is known as DSK Holidays. DSK Holidays has made a name for itself as a top provider of outstanding travel services to visitors to Goa thanks to its years of experience and knowledge in the travel sector.
    DSK Holidays, aGoa B2b Travel Agent, provides a variety of services to meet the various needs and interests of visitors. DSK Holidays makes sure that its customers have a flawless and enjoyable trip by planning everything from transportation to sightseeing tours and adventure activities.

  17. You will need your registered email address and the related password for a successful Norton login. Your main method of access to your Norton account is this pairing. Making sure the provided email is accurate and keeping track of your safe password are essential. You’ll also need the secondary code generated by your selected method if you’ve enabled two-factor authentication. The security of your account and the safety of your devices depend on you keeping this information secure.

    https://contactfor-guide.com/norton-login/

Leave a Reply

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