The Royal Ballet of Cambodia

　　
Proclamation: 2003

　　Member State(s): Cambodia

　　Region: Asia-Pacific

　　Associated themes: Performing arts

　　Renowned for its graceful hand gestures and stunning costumes, the Royal Ballet of Cambodia, also known as Khmer Classical Dance, has been closely associated with the Khmer court for more than 1,000 years. Performances traditionally accompanied royal ceremonies and observances such as coronations, marriages, funerals or Khmer holidays. This art form, which narrowly escaped annihilation in the 1970s, is cherished by Cambodians around the world.

　　According to legend, the ballet is as ancient as the Khmers themselves. Carved representations of dancers, like those adorning the famous temples at Angkor, first appeared in the 9th century. Infused with a sacred and symbolic role, the dance embodies the traditional values of refinement, respect and spirituality. Its repertoire 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 the woman, Neayrong the man, Yeak the giant, and Sva the monkey. Each possesses distinctive colors, costumes, makeup, masks and gestures. The codified gestures and poses, which dancers struggle to master over years of intensive training, evoke the gamut of human emotions, from fear and rage to love and joy. An orchestra performing sacred music accompanies the dance, and a female chorus provides running commentary on the plot and highlights the emotions mimed by the dancers. It is hardly surprising that these exquisite dancers were considered the kings' messengers to the gods and to ancestors.