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

27,087 thoughts on “Cambodia Dance”

  2. Best Digital Marketing Institute In Sikandrabad: Just Digital Duniya

    Discover the Best Digital Marketing Institute In Sikandrabad for comprehensive training and industry insights. Our expert instructors provide hands-on experience in SEO, SEM, social media, and analytics, equipping you with essential skills for today’s digital landscape. Join our supportive community and gain practical knowledge through real-world projects. Whether you’re a beginner or aiming to advance your career, our tailored courses ensure you excel in digital marketing. Enroll now and embark on your journey to success with the best in Sikandrabad.

  4. Hello there! Nice article!!! But anyways here’s one of the trusted online baccarat site we can offer you so many promo and event everyday!! Good luck!!! 카지노사이트

  7. Reading this info So i am glad to convey that I have a very just right uncanny feeling I found out exactly what I needed. See more about sportstoto: 파워볼사이트

  10. Thank you so much for sharing this article. As fellow bloggers, we are very impressed with the work you have done. To read articles or journals about trustworthy and safe Indonesian games, please visit my blog, Kodok4D .

  12. https://certease.com/iso-14001-certification-in-colombia/

    CertEase is a renowned & top ISO 14001 consultant in Colombia. We provide ISO 14001 consulting services in Colombia and across major cities which include Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, Barranquilla, Cartagena, Cúcuta, and Bucaramanga.

    Our aim is to make ISO 14001 certification in Colombia accessible and affordable for all organizations that are looking to get ISO 14001 compliant, regardless of the organization’s size, location, or nature of business Our ISO 14001 consultation services in Colombia cover all the steps included in the ISO 14001 implementation process such as gap assessment, training, documentation, internal audit, registration, third-party audit & assistance in clearing the audit & obtaining the certification.

    Our ISO 14001 consultation services meet the specific requirements of each organization & provide tailored solutions. ISO 14001 is not about just getting certification is important for companies to thoroughly implement standards and meet all the requirements set by the standard to maintain quality and environmental aspects.

    By choosing an experienced consultant & implementing the best practices of ISO 14001 standard, you can develop a strong environmental management system within your organization that will help reduce risks and streamline the manufacturing process & improve their environmental performance which helps reduce costs, manage waste & improve quality of the overall product & services.

    Contact CertEase to guide you through the ISO 14001 certification process in Colombia and improve the quality and safety of your product & services and become an environmentally friendly organization.

  15. یدکی میتسوبیشی لوازم یدکی میتسوبیشی به فروش میرسد و خدمات آنها شامل انواع خودروهای میتسوبیشی از جمله اوتلندر و لنسر نیز میشود.
    برای خرید
    لوازم یدکی اوتلندر
    لوازم یدکی اوتلندر
    بهترین انتخاب سایت لوازم یدکی میتسولند است که به طور تخصصی لوازم خودرو میتسوبیشی را در بازار لوازم یدکی تهران به فروش میرساند.
    قیمت ارزان لوازم اوتلندر
    قیمت ارزان لوازم میتسوبیشی
    بهترین سایت لوازم یدکی میتسوبیشی در میتسولند
    آیا به این فکر کرده‌اید که میتسوبیشی ساخت کجاست؟
    برای دریافت اطلاعات در خصوص اینکه میتسوبیشی ساخت کجاست به مقاله منتشر شده در میتسولند مراجعه نمایید
    میتسوبیشی ساخت کجاست
    برای خرید ارزان و استعلام قیمت سپر عقب اوتلندر به سایت میتسولند سایت لوازم یدکی میتسوبیشی مراجعه نمایید
    سپر عقب اوتلندر
    امیدوارم کامنت من برای شما مفید واقع شود
    Thanks

  18. Our comprehensive medical billing services allow medical practices to focus on patient care coordination while leaving financial issues to Pyramids Global. They help practices verify that claims and reimbursements are adequate and integrate affirmed solutions to increase the efficiency and productivity of billing operations. Their special handling of accounts receivable and billable claims helps maintain monthly collections and revenue cycles.

  19. 이것은이 유용한 메시지를 공유하기위한 특별한 요소입니다. 이 블로그에있는 정보에 놀랐습니다. 그것은 여러 관점에서 나를 일으킨다. 이것을 다시 한 번 게시하기 위해 감사의 빚이 있습니다. 카지노

  21. I was struggling with my assessments until I discovered Assessment Help. The expert advice and detailed explanations have made a huge difference in my performance. This service is a must-have for anyone looking to excel in their studies.

  23. Fantastic article! I just discovered your blog and have been really enjoying your content. I’ve subscribed to your feed and can’t wait for your next posts.Click here

  27. Our team at Kodok4D would like to introduce you to a popular game platform in Indonesia that is safe, comprehensive, gampang-penarikan, and trustworthy.

  32. What a fascinating exploration of Cambodian dance! The blog provides a comprehensive overview of the different types of dance in Cambodia, highlighting their cultural significance and historical evolution. The detailed description of Khmer Classical Dance, with its rich history and connection to the divine, offers a deep insight into the artistic and spiritual heritage of Cambodia. It’s remarkable how this dance form, despite facing near extinction during the Khmer Rouge regime, was revived by the surviving artists.

    The contrast between Khmer Classical Dance and Folk Dance is well-articulated, showing how the former is steeped in tradition and symbolism, while the latter is more about entertainment and storytelling from everyday life. The mention of Vernacular Dance adds another layer to the understanding of Cambodian social customs and how traditional and global influences blend together in modern celebrations.

    The blog not only educates readers about the technical aspects of the dance forms but also evokes a sense of respect and admiration for the resilience and dedication of Cambodian artists. This cultural preservation and adaptation over centuries truly reflect the enduring spirit of the Cambodian people.
    https://boatsnbeds.com/

  39. 긍정적 인 사이트,이 게시물에 대한 정보를 어디서 얻었습니까? 나는 그것을 발견하게되어 기쁘다. 당신이 어떤 추가 포스트를 포함하는지 곧 확인하기 위해 곧 다시 확인할 것이다. EPL중계

  40. Nice to be visiting your blog again, it has been months for me. Well this article that i’ve been waited for so long. I need this article to complete my assignment in the college, and it has same topic with your article. Thanks, great share 메이저리그중계

  45. Pyramids Global offers Revenue Cycle Management (RCM) services and healthcare IT consultation. This helps to improve a practitioner’s financial health, procedures, collections, and growth. Our medical billing and credentialing services will assist your practice in optimizing your revenue cycle operations using various proven methods.

    Visit: https://www.pyramidsglobal.com/service/revenue-cycle-management/

  46. Certainly a terrific effort! It is encouraging to read such smart and well-presented opinions. It was both entertaining and well-written. SEO Agency provides additional resources and professional assistance.

  47. Certainly a terrific effort! It is encouraging to read such smart and well-presented opinions. It was both entertaining and well-written. Laser Hair Removal provides additional resources and professional assistance.

  48. เว็บสล็อต Betflik ของเรานั้นมีให้เลือกเล่นมากมายหลายรูปแบบ ทั้งสล็อตคลาสสิค สล็อตวิดีโอ หรือสล็อตโปรเกรสซีฟแจ็คพอต ซึ่งมีธีมหลากหลายตามความชอบของผู้เล่น ไม่ว่าจะเป็น ผลไม้ สัตว์ ธรรมชาติ ผจญภัย หรือตามเทศกาลต่างๆ อีกทั้งยังมีฟีเจอร์พิเศษ ฟรีสปิน

  49. “Excited for the CNI Master Class in Siem Reap! Looking forward to gaining insights and connecting with peers. For those interested, check out 96in Bet for some thrilling betting action!
    https://96in.com/en/#/

Leave a Reply

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