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Khmer Classical Dances
Cambodia is known for its rich cultural heritage, and traditional dances play a significant role in preserving and expressing that cultural identity. Some of the most famous traditional dances in Cambodia include:

Apsara Dance (Robam Tep Apsara):

The Apsara dance is one of the most iconic and classical dances in Cambodia. It originated in the royal courts and is often performed during special ceremonies and events. The dance is characterized by intricate hand movements, elaborate costumes, and graceful movements that depict celestial maidens known as Apsaras. The Apsara dance is a traditional dance of the Kingdom of Cambodia, dating back to the 7th century. The famous Angkorian-period Khmer King, Javayarman VII (12th century), was said to have over 3,000 Apsara dancers in his court.

This dance is an essential part of the Khmer culture. It finds its roots in both Hindu and Buddhist mythologies. According to Hindu mythology, Apsaras were beautiful female creatures that descended from heaven to entertain Gods and Kings with their dance.

The Apsara dance, a captivating expression of Cambodian culture, narrowly escaped extinction during the tumultuous Khmer Rouge regime (1975-1979). Its survival can be attributed to a handful of resilient dancers who selflessly passed on their intricate knowledge to the next generation. Among these torchbearers was Princess Bopha Devi, the esteemed daughter of the late King Norodom Sihanouk. Her unwavering dedication to preserving this timeless tradition propelled her to become the global ambassador of Khmer dance during the 1950s and 1960s.

In 2003, the Apsara dance was rightfully enshrined as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, a testament to its profound cultural significance. No journey to Cambodia is truly complete without witnessing this mesmerizing spectacle, a symphony of graceful movements and exquisite artistry.

Robam Jun Por (Wishing Dance):

Gracefully adorning the commencement of auspicious ceremonies, Robam Jun Por, the Blessing Dance, stands as a testament to the Khmer people's inherent warmth and hospitality. This exquisite dance, a masterpiece conceived by Her Majesty the Queen Sisowath Kosamak Nearyrath, seamlessly intertwines graceful movements with heartfelt blessings, mirroring the gentle and welcoming spirit of the Khmer nation.

Through its delicate steps and subtle gestures, Robam Jun Por conveys profound wishes of peace, prosperity, and good fortune upon the audience. The dancers, clad in resplendent silk attire, glide across the stage with an air of serenity, their movements imbued with a deep sense of reverence and respect.

As the dance unfolds, the performers hold golden goblets brimming with fragrant blossoms, symbolic of the blessings bestowed upon the onlookers. With gentle grace, they pluck the blossoms from the goblets and shower them upon the audience, a gesture that encapsulates the Khmer people's innate generosity and kindness.

Robam Jun Por serves as a poignant expression of the Khmer identity, a harmonious blend of elegance, spirituality, and hospitality. It is a dance that speaks volumes about the Khmer people's unwavering commitment to fostering peace, friendship, and harmonious coexistence.

Lakhon Khol (Classical Masked dance):

A captivating blend of storytelling and dance, Lakhon Khol performances typically commence with an introduction of the storytellers through narration and dialogue. This sets the stage for the ensuing dances, which bear a striking resemblance to the choreography of the Royal Ballet. However, the hand, foot, and body gestures employed in Lakhon Khol are imbued with a profound emotional resonance, mirroring the intricate nuances of the Khmer Reamker narrative.

Classical Khmer music, known as Pinpeat, forms an integral component of Lakhon Khol performances. While Pinpeat music is also utilized in classical dances, the former's duration is typically shorter, seamlessly transitioning from one melody to another in sync with the gestures and movements of the performers. Drums play an additional role, punctuating the narrative with rhythmic beats that complement the emotional intensity of the performance. For instance, an angry gesture is often accompanied by a burst of drumming, further amplifying the dramatic impact of the scene.

This interplay between dance, music, and storytelling creates an immersive experience that transports the audience into the heart of the Khmer Reamker epic. Lakhon Khol stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of Cambodian culture, a vibrant tradition that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.