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

27,019 thoughts on “Cambodia Dance”

  5. پمپ هیدرولیک صنعتی
    پمپ هیدرولیک صنعتی یکی از اجزای حیاتی در سیستم‌های هیدرولیکی هستند که در صنایع مختلف، از جمله خودروسازی، تجهیزات ساختمانی و تولیدات صنعتی مورد استفاده قرار می‌گیرند. این پمپ‌ها به عنوان قلب سیستم‌های هیدرولیکی عمل می‌کنند و انرژی مکانیکی را به انرژی هیدرولیکی تبدیل می‌کنند. اما چه چیزی پمپ هیدرولیک را به این اندازه مهم می‌سازد؟ در این مقاله، به بررسی عمیق این پمپ‌ها، عملکرد آنها و کاربردهای مختلف آنها خواهیم پرداخت.
    https://msp-hydraulic.com/%d9%be%d9%85%d9%be-%d9%87%db%8c%d8%af%d8%b1%d9%88%d9%84%db%8c%da%a9-%d8%b5%d9%86%d8%b9%d8%aa%db%8c-%da%86%db%8c%d8%b3%d8%aa/

  6. Thank you for this comprehensive article. I believe it can be an important reference in understanding [article topic], especially from both a practical and theoretical perspective.

  8. Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful blog post! I really appreciate the effort you have put into creating such informative and engaging content. It’s always refreshing to read blogs that provide genuine value to readers, and this one was both insightful and enjoyable from start to finish.
    I would also like to take a moment to talk about NeoTrue, a leading name in healthcare known for its excellence and commitment to patient care. With a team of highly skilled doctors, advanced technology, and a patient-focused approach, NeoTrue has built a reputation for delivering world-class medical services. Their dedication to quality treatment and compassionate care has earned them the trust of countless patients.
    From routine check-ups to complex treatments, NeoTrue ensures that every patient receives the best possible medical attention in a safe and comfortable environment. Their focus on innovation, expertise, and affordability makes them a preferred choice for families seeking top-quality healthcare services.
    For those looking for the Best multi-specialty hospital in Electronic city, it’s important to choose a facility that combines cutting-edge technology with expert medical professionals. Having access to a reliable healthcare center in the neighborhood ensures timely treatment and peace of mind for patients and their families.
    Thank you once again for sharing such a valuable and insightful post. I truly enjoyed reading it and look forward to exploring more of your content in the future!

  10. Купить Офшор
    Звертаюся до вас з проханням надати консультацію відносно того, наскількі вашим клієнтам потрібні прями розрахункові рахунки з персональним IBAN в USD, EUR, GBP. Пропонується низька ціна відкриття.

  13. Looking to transform your space? Get in touch with Q Oak Interiors, the best interior designer in Bangalore. Known for their stunning designs, attention to detail, and client-focused approach, they bring your dream interiors to life with style and functionality. Don’t settle for ordinary—experience exceptional design with Q Oak Interiors today!
    https://www.hibahealthfoods.co.uk/

  14. هزینه بازسازی خانه
    نکات کلیدی برای کاهش هزینه بازسازی خانه
    کاهش هزینه بازسازی خانه نیازمند برنامه‌ریزی دقیق و انتخاب‌های هوشمندانه است. با توجه به نکات مطرح شده، می‌توانید به بهترین نحو از منابع خود استفاده کنید و در عین حال یک فضای زیبا و کاربردی ایجاد نمایید. با مدیریت مناسب هزینه‌ها، می‌توانید پروژه بازسازی خود را با موفقیت به پایان برسانید. در نهایت، با انتخاب‌های درست و برنامه‌ریزی مؤثر، می‌توانید هزینه‌های بازسازی را به حداقل برسانید و از نتیجه نهایی لذت ببرید.
    https://karinadecor.com/%da%a9%d8%a7%d9%87%d8%b4-%d9%87%d8%b2%db%8c%d9%86%d9%87-%d8%a8%d8%a7%d8%b2%d8%b3%d8%a7%d8%b2%db%8c-%d8%ae%d8%a7%d9%86%d9%87/

  15. هزینه بازسازی خانه
    نکات کلیدی برای کاهش هزینه بازسازی خانه
    کاهش هزینه بازسازی خانه نیازمند برنامه‌ریزی دقیق و انتخاب‌های هوشمندانه است. با توجه به نکات مطرح شده، می‌توانید به بهترین نحو از منابع خود استفاده کنید و در عین حال یک فضای زیبا و کاربردی ایجاد نمایید. با مدیریت مناسب هزینه‌ها، می‌توانید پروژه بازسازی خود را با موفقیت به پایان برسانید. در نهایت، با انتخاب‌های درست و برنامه‌ریزی مؤثر، می‌توانید هزینه‌های بازسازی را به حداقل برسانید و از نتیجه نهایی لذت ببرید.
    https://karinadecor.com/%da%a9%d8%a7%d9%87%d8%b4-%d9%87%d8%b2%db%8c%d9%86%d9%87-%d8%a8%d8%a7%d8%b2%d8%b3%d8%a7%d8%b2%db%8c-%d8%ae%d8%a7%d9%86%d9%87/

  16. ما درکافه کشاورز، پذیرای انتشار آخرین دستاوردهای اجرایی و تحقیقاتی، خلاصه مقالات و یادداشت‌های مرتبط با کارویژه سایت هستیم.

    اگر به عنوان یک مزرعه‌دار و کشاورز فعالیت می‌کنید از فعالیت‌های نوآورانه‌ی خود برای‌مان بنویسید و بفرستید یا پیام بگذارید تا با شما تماس بگیریم.

  21. Many clinics still hesitate to upgrade their systems, but Revenue Cycle Management Healthcare Software is no longer just for big hospitals. Even small practices benefit from reduced administrative work, faster payments, and better financial reporting. In today’s competitive environment, it’s an investment that pays for itself over time.

  24. who add an exotic appeal to the industry. Each category of escort brings its own flavor of companionship, ensuring clients can choose according to their personality, mood, and occasion.hyderabad call girl

  30. At BetOnlineID, we focus on three core values: fast registration, secure transactions, and endless entertainment. With our quick ID setup, you can start playing within minutes—no lengthy processes or unnecessary delays. We also ensure complete safety for your funds and personal information, so you can enjoy betting without any worries. online cricket id

  32. canada no deposit bonus casino, uk slots sites and online poker with friends australia,
    or how best games to play at riverwind casino, Rosella, win roulette in casino uk

  33. statistics of gambling in canada, free spins for registration usa 2021 and spin palace mobile casino australia,
    or list of casinos in canada

    my web-site … blackjack needle cartridges [Celina]

  34. Vidalista 80 is a high-strength formulation of tadalafil (80 mg) marketed for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) and symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

    Due to its high strength, Vidalista 80 should only be taken with a doctor’s guidance. The medication may interact with other drugs—particularly nitrates and certain blood-pressure treatments—and can pose health risks for individuals with heart conditions, liver or kidney impairment, or other medical concerns. For safety, it is strongly recommended to seek medical advice before starting this treatment, especially if purchasing from online pharmacies.

    It is claimed to relax smooth muscle tissues in the penile area and prostate/bladder, thereby enhancing blood flow and facilitating erection when sexual stimulation occurs.

  35. Reddit has a competitive ecosystem where visibility is everything. Many content creators decide to quality reddit upvotes to gain an initial boost. But for long-lasting success, you need quality Reddit upvotes that look organic. When you buy Reddit upvotes, make sure the provider delivers votes that blend seamlessly into the community. Cheap services often use fake accounts, but quality Reddit upvotes provide natural growth and real impact. A trusted service ensures your post gains momentum while staying safe. With the right approach, Reddit can become a strong tool for promotion and engagement.

  48. Thank you so much for sharing this insightful blog post! I truly appreciate the time and effort you’ve put into crafting such valuable content. It was a pleasure to read, and I found the information both useful and engaging. Blogs like yours always help readers gain new perspectives and ideas.
    I would also like to take a moment to talk about Mirainow, a name that has earned a reputation for excellence in the interior design industry. Known for their creative approach and commitment to quality, Mirainow has transformed countless homes into beautiful, functional spaces that reflect the personality and lifestyle of their clients. Their attention to detail, modern designs, and customer-focused service make them stand out in the market.
    From conceptualizing unique layouts to delivering perfectly executed interiors, Mirainow ensures that every project is handled with the utmost professionalism. Their goal is to bring dream homes to life with a perfect blend of style and practicality.
    For anyone looking for the best Best interior designer in bangalore, it’s essential to choose someone with a proven track record of delivering high-quality designs. A well-designed kitchen not only enhances the beauty of a home but also improves its functionality, making everyday life more convenient and enjoyable.
    Thank you once again for sharing such a well-written and informative post. I’m looking forward to reading more of your blogs and gaining more valuable insights in the future!

Leave a Reply

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