The Royal Ballet of Cambodia 🇰🇭

- The Royal Ballet of Cambodia 🇰🇭 The Royal Ballet of Cambodia is a form of theatre established in the royal courts of Cambodia. Its aristocratic background is evident in its refined and highly symbolic dance gestures. From the outset, this theatrical style was highly ritualised and used to celebrate royal ceremonies that served to establish the authority of the courts. Its centuries-long association with the monarchy gives it a peculiar characteristic: all its artists are traditionally female. Traditionally, the royal troupe’s repertoire included stories that originated from Hindu and Buddhist legends and myths. In the nineteenth century, performances could last several days and short pieces of ballet or comic scenes were inserted as a distraction for the king and the audience. Traditionally, the royal troupe’s repertoire included stories that originated from Hindu and Buddhist legends and myths. In the nineteenth century, performances could last several days and short pieces of ballet or comic scenes were inserted as a distraction for the king and the audience. In the early twentieth century, the French colonial authorities commissioned the royal troupe to perform at the 1906 Colonial Exhibition in Marseilles, which formed part of the official visit by the newly crowned King Sisowath. Performances were held in three cities including Paris, and the tour was a tremendous success. The celebrated sculptor, Auguste Rodin, who was fascinated by the performance at the Pré-Catelan in Paris, took the train down to Marseilles and spent three days with the dancers. By the time the troupe left, he had drawn more than 200 portraits. The success of the royal troupe served to legitimise France’s presence in Cambodia as both protector of the monarchy and patron of the arts... Credit @theasiadialogue Credit @UNESCO.org @Amazing kingdom #Cambodia #Khmerculture