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Cambodia: Classical Khmer dance faces new threats
Classical Khmer dance in Cambodia, recognized as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO since 2003, is facing renewed challenges as funding and student enrollment decline. The art form, once nearly eradicated under the Pol Pot regime, is struggling to attract young dancers to its rigorous nine-year training program.
Penh Yom, a 78-year-old teacher at Phnom Penh’s School of Fine Arts, carefully guides her students through delicate hand movements and posture corrections, passing on skills that have survived decades of upheaval. “I fear it may disappear again,” she said. “We encourage our students to train hard and help preserve this art.”
The Royal Ballet of Cambodia, over a thousand years old, is known for its intricate hand gestures, expressive movements, and vibrant costumes. Young dancers such as 21-year-old Yang Spheaktra describe the training as “really difficult,” requiring patience, discipline, and memorization of numerous dance styles. Many students drop out before completing the program, despite the free tuition offered by the school.
Originally performed during royal ceremonies such as coronations and weddings, Khmer classical dance conveys a wide range of human emotions, from fear and rage to love and joy. UNESCO has warned that this tradition risks being reduced to a tourist attraction if it is not carefully preserved.
The School of Fine Arts in Phnom Penh remains the primary institution for training the next generation, with over 90 teachers providing instruction in both classical dance and general education. Students also use social media to share performances and promote their culture; 18-year-old Tola Thina has more than 20,000 followers on Facebook. “I want to be a traditional dancer and help preserve this culture,” she says.
Despite the pressures of modern life and financial constraints, teachers and students alike are working to ensure that Khmer classical dance continues to thrive in Cambodia.
