The arts in Cambodia

Brutal dictatorships tend to target artists first. You know, creative types would just put such a damper on their plans. The Khmer Rouge was no exception, and a lot of traditional Khmer music and dance nearly died out during that dark time.

I'm happy to say that today there are many, many organizations working to both revitalize traditional art forms and to also encourage creativity and new expression. Below is a list of what I've found so far, and I'd encourage anyone who wants to see freedom of expression take hold in Cambodia (as well as give street kids another option than begging to survive) to donate something to one of these groups.







Phare Ponleu Selpak (Brightness of Art)
Formed in 1986 in a refugee camp on the Thai border, this organization now works with orphans and trafficking victims and offers them schooling. Approximatey 35% of their students study visual arts, music, circus, drama and dance.

Epic Arts
This group works to integrate disabled and able-bodied people through Khmer dance, contemporary dance, creative movement, drama, art, crafts, music and puppetry. It's worth noting that nearly 5% of Cambodian's population is disabled due to land mines, poor health care and increasing numbers of traffic and work accidents.

Cambodian Living Arts
Cambodian-American refugee Arn Chorn-Pond, after gaining recognition in the film "The Flute Player", founded this organization to support the revival of traditional Khmer art forms.

Sovanna Phum (Golden Era)
Created in 1996, they offer free performances at their space in Phnom Penh, and also travel to rural areas. Currently the director is using puppet theater to teach villagers about the bird flu epidemic. (Their new website will be launched in spring 2008.)

Amrita (Eternity)
Working to preserve the performing arts in Cambodia, Amrita also runs the Cambodian Artists Program.

Spotlight - Asian Festival of Inclusive Arts
This festival is brand new and debuts tomorrow with a parade here in Phnom Penh. I will be attending a couple of the events this weekend, and will write another post just on this festival.