Apsara: Dance of the Woodland Spirits

Ranked #602 in Culture & Society, #14,455 overall

Apsara: The Cambodian Royal Traditional Dance

The Apsara Dance or RobamTep Apsara as the Khmer call it is Cambodia's special national treasure. This has been confirmed by UNESCO when in 2003, the Apsara Dance was recognized in the world's gallery of cultural masterpieces as a "Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity".

Apsaras, the woodland spirits that were a part of the Khmer primitive animistic beliefs, were the origins of this now famous Cambodian Royal Ballet. The Apsaras you can see adorning the Angkor temples became the permanent choreographers, avoiding Balanchine creativity for perfect imitation of the most intricate of gestural movement, each hand and head, body, leg and foot manifestation expresses depth and meaning. The resulting movements are captivating and engaging as they re-enact the mythical and legendary Churning of the Milk, the battle of the gods and demons for the elixir of immortality or scenes from the Indian epic, Ramayana. Yes, there was a time (around the first century) when the Angkor kings adhered to Brahmanism and until now, such influence is still seen in many Cambodian rituals. But most of all, it's a dance drama, not boring. It can be energetic or intricate and the costumes alone set the stage on fire.

The Apsara Stage and Costume

A Display of Colors

Know more about the Apsaras

Books you can read

Interested in knowing more about these celestial dancers immortalized not only in the cultural performances but also in the walls of the world famous Angkor Temples?

Get one of these books to understand the Apsara better.

Apsaras by Kevill Davies

Apsaras by Kevill Davies

What's in a moment? Life and death-that's what. At more...0 points

Beyond the Apsara: Celebrating Dance in Cambodia (Celebrating Dance in Asia and the Pacific)

Beyond the Apsara: Celebrating Dance in Cambodia (Celebrating Dance in Asia and the Pacific)

This book celebrates and documents the resurgence of more...0 points

Apsaras in Hoysala Art: A New Dimension by Rao, Rekha

Apsaras in Hoysala Art: A New Dimension by Rao, Rekha

This book on Apsaras in Hoysala art with particula more...0 points

Controllare - mitologia: Mitologia induista, Era, Miti e leggende della Sicilia, Mito di fondazione, Nga, Purana, Mórrígan, Apsaras (Italian Edition) by Fonte: Wikipedia

Controllare - mitologia: Mitologia induista, Era, Miti e leggende della Sicilia, Mito di fondazione, Nga, Purana, Mórrígan, Apsaras (Italian Edition) by Fonte: Wikipedia

Fonte: Wikipedia. Pagine: 29. Capitoli: Mitologia more...0 points

Megami Tensei - Hindu Mythology: Acheri, Agni, Airavata, Ananta, Apsaras, Ardha, Asura, Brahma, Brahman, Churel, Deva, Deva Ou, Durga, Dyaus, Enku, ... Hayagriva, Indra, Indrajit, Jambavan, by Source: Wikia

Megami Tensei - Hindu Mythology: Acheri, Agni, Airavata, Ananta, Apsaras, Ardha, Asura, Brahma, Brahman, Churel, Deva, Deva Ou, Durga, Dyaus, Enku, ... Hayagriva, Indra, Indrajit, Jambavan, by Source: Wikia

Source: Wikia. Pages: 44. Chapters: Acheri, Agni, more...0 points

Megami Tensei - Shin Megami Tensei IMAGINE Demons: Aello, Aeros, Alp, Amatsukami, Ame no Uzume, Angel, Apis, Apsaras, Archangel, Azumi, Bai Ze, ... Catoblepas, Celaeno, Cerberus, Coatlicue, Coc by Source: Wikia

Megami Tensei - Shin Megami Tensei IMAGINE Demons: Aello, Aeros, Alp, Amatsukami, Ame no Uzume, Angel, Apis, Apsaras, Archangel, Azumi, Bai Ze, ... Catoblepas, Celaeno, Cerberus, Coatlicue, Coc by Source: Wikia

Source: Wikia. Pages: 86. Chapters: Aello, Aeros, more...0 points

Megami Tensei - Persona 3: FES Personae: Abaddon, Alice, Alilat, Alp, Ananta, Angel, Anubis, Apsaras, Ara Mitama, Arahabaki, Archangel, Ares, ... Bishamonten, Black Frost, Byakko, Caesar, C by Source: Wikia

Megami Tensei - Persona 3: FES Personae: Abaddon, Alice, Alilat, Alp, Ananta, Angel, Anubis, Apsaras, Ara Mitama, Arahabaki, Archangel, Ares, ... Bishamonten, Black Frost, Byakko, Caesar, C by Source: Wikia

Source: Wikia. Pages: 138. Chapters: Abaddon, Alic more...0 points

Megami Tensei - Shin Megami Tensei Demons: Aeros, Agni, Ame no Uzume, Ananta, Andras, Angel, Apsaras, Aquans, Arachne, Arahabaki, Archangel, Arioch, ... Ze, Banshee, Barong, Basilisk, Bastet, Bay by Source: Wikia

Megami Tensei - Shin Megami Tensei Demons: Aeros, Agni, Ame no Uzume, Ananta, Andras, Angel, Apsaras, Aquans, Arachne, Arahabaki, Archangel, Arioch, ... Ze, Banshee, Barong, Basilisk, Bastet, Bay by Source: Wikia

Source: Wikia. Pages: 102. Chapters: Aeros, Agni, more...0 points

Megami Tensei - Persona 3 Personae: Abaddon, Alice, Alilat, Alp, Ananta, Angel, Anubis, Apsaras, Ara Mitama, Arahabaki, Archangel, Ares, Artemisia, ... Black Frost, Byakko, Caesar, Castor by Source: Wikia

Megami Tensei - Persona 3 Personae: Abaddon, Alice, Alilat, Alp, Ananta, Angel, Anubis, Apsaras, Ara Mitama, Arahabaki, Archangel, Ares, Artemisia, ... Black Frost, Byakko, Caesar, Castor by Source: Wikia

Source: Wikia. Pages: 138. Chapters: Abaddon, Alic more...0 points

Megami Tensei - Persona 4 Personae: Abaddon, Alice, Alilat, Alraune, Amaterasu, Ananta, Andras, Angel, Anubis, Anzu, Apsaras, Ara Mitama, Arahabaki, ... Beelzebub, Belial, Belphegor, Berith, Blac by Source: Wikia

Megami Tensei - Persona 4 Personae: Abaddon, Alice, Alilat, Alraune, Amaterasu, Ananta, Andras, Angel, Anubis, Anzu, Apsaras, Ara Mitama, Arahabaki, ... Beelzebub, Belial, Belphegor, Berith, Blac by Source: Wikia

Source: Wikia. Pages: 139. Chapters: Abaddon, Alic more...0 points

Koei - Games: Apsaras, Champion Jockey, Corridor, Crimson Sea, Crimson Sea 2, Dark Hunter, Destrega, Dynasty Tactics, Dynasty Tactics 2, Dynasty ... 4, Dynasty Warriors 5, Dynasty Warriors 6, by Source: Wikia

Koei - Games: Apsaras, Champion Jockey, Corridor, Crimson Sea, Crimson Sea 2, Dark Hunter, Destrega, Dynasty Tactics, Dynasty Tactics 2, Dynasty ... 4, Dynasty Warriors 5, Dynasty Warriors 6, by Source: Wikia

Source: Wikia. Pages: 103. Chapters: Apsaras, Cham more...0 points

Archaeological Sites In Cambodia, including: Baphuon, East Baray, West Baray, Koh Ker, Apsara, Angkor, Angkor Wat, Preah Vihear Temple, Yasodharapura, ... Preah Khan Kompong Svay, Indrapura (khmer) by Hephaestus Books

Archaeological Sites In Cambodia, including: Baphuon, East Baray, West Baray, Koh Ker, Apsara, Angkor, Angkor Wat, Preah Vihear Temple, Yasodharapura, ... Preah Khan Kompong Svay, Indrapura (khmer) by Hephaestus Books

Hephaestus Books represents a new publishing parad more...0 points

Apsara Dance

Apsara Dance

Please note that the content of this book primaril more...0 points

The Apsara Performer

A Masterpiece of Culture

Want to own one of these Apsara collectibles?

Auctions on the Apsara

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Pictures of Apsara

Cambodian Living Cultural Heritage

The Apsara has been so much a part of Khmer culture.

Apsara, Bayon Temple by HeyItsWilliam
CSS Cultural Show 2011 by SodanieChea
CSS Cultural Show 2011 by SodanieChea
CSS Cultural Show 2011 by SodanieChea
Apsara  (Preah Khan, Angkor) by dalbera
IMG_2555 by hslo
Prière des Apsaras (Siem Reap) by dalbera
Danse de Mekhala (Siem Reap) by dalbera
Danse de Mekhala (Siem Reap) by dalbera
Ballet des Apsaras (Siem Reap) by dalbera
Danse de Mekhala (Siem Reap) by dalbera
Apsara (Siem Reap) by dalbera
Danseuse traditionnelle khmère (Phnom Penh) by dalbera
Danseuse traditionnelle khmère (Phnom Penh) by dalbera
Apsara Arts Association (Phnom Penh) by dalbera
Apsara Arts Association (Phnom Penh) by dalbera
Apsara Arts Association (Phnom Penh) by dalbera
CSS Cultural Show 2011 by SodanieChea
CSS Cultural Show 2011 by SodanieChea
CSS Cultural Show 2011 by SodanieChea
Apsara at Preah Khan, Angkor by Matthew Wilkinson
Apsara at Preah Khan, Angkor by Matthew Wilkinson
Apsara by istolethetv
Apsara Arts Association (Phnom Penh) by dalbera
automatically generated by Flickr

The Apsara Dancers

In Pictures

Apsara in Art

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The Apsara Dance Drama

Largely Based on the Ramayana

Apsara Costume

Dressed in silk tunics and skirts with elaborately adorned head dresses, the performers come in four: the male and female dancers, the monkey and the giant. It is easy to follow the story based on the epic, Ramayana. Hanuman is the monkey deity known for his extraordinary courage and selfless service. It was said that Hanuman was the son of Anjana, the Apsara who was transformed into a monkey by a curse from the wind god, Vayu.

Hanuman was a bit naughty as a boy and enjoyed pulling tricks like dousing sacred fires or creating whirlwinds or just flitting about, all movements easily captured and exaggerated in the dance. So, finally the gods asked Brahma to sort Hanuman out. Brahma removed Hanuman's knowledge of his powers. But as in most great epics, the hero ends up in a victorious feat which becomes the climax of the many Apsara re-enactments of Ramayana. The triumph of mischief is always good fun.

The Ramayana and the Apsara Dance

The Apsara Articulates in Dance the Ramayana

To better appreciate the Apsara, have a good background of the Ramayana as this is one of the major themes tthe Apsara dancers portray.

The Ramayana: A Shortened Modern Prose Version of the Indian Epic (Penguin Classics) by R. K. Narayan

The Ramayana: A Shortened Modern Prose Version of the Indian Epic (Penguin Classics) by R. K. Narayan

A sweeping tale of abduction, battle, and courtship more...0 points

Ramayana by William Buck

Ramayana by William Buck

Few works in world literature have inspired so vast more...0 points

Ramayana: Divine Loophole by Sanjay Patel

Ramayana: Divine Loophole by Sanjay Patel

Artist and veteran Pixar animator Sanjay Patel lends more...0 points

The Ramayana: A Modern Retelling of the Great Indian Epic by Ramesh Menon

The Ramayana: A Modern Retelling of the Great Indian Epic by Ramesh Menon

The great Indian epic rendered in modern proseIndia's more...0 points

Ramayana: India's Immortal Tale of Adventure, Love and Wisdom by Krishna Dharma

Ramayana: India's Immortal Tale of Adventure, Love and Wisdom by Krishna Dharma

The Ramayana (the Journey of Rama) is possibly the more...0 points

Ramayana: A Tale of Gods and Demons (Art of Devotion) by Ranchor Prime

Ramayana: A Tale of Gods and Demons (Art of Devotion) by Ranchor Prime

From the kingdom of Ayodhya to the isle of Lanka, more...0 points

Watch Hanuman in a Performance

The Monkey Dance

Angkor Dance Troupe, Monkey Dance
by MassCulturalCouncil | video info

22 ratings | 9,415 views
curated content from YouTube

Hanuman

The Monkey God

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The Apsara Movements and Costumes

Know their significance

If you understand the meaning of the movements and the costumes, you will have a more enjoyable experience. The costumes are close to the Khmer traditional costumes except that the color must be closer to the skin to symbolize the woodland spirit so you see the dancers wear tight fitting skin coloured tops. Usually the white skirt is for the main dancer with the subordinate dancers wearing other colors. The headdress for the main dancer is with five tiers and the minor ones just three, following the depictions in Angkor.

The Apsara Movements

The Meaning of Each (from the Royal Angkor Hotel folder)

The Apsara Hand Movements

Very intricate

Look at how the kids learn how to do the apsara dance

Very complicated movements

Apsara Dancer 10 by flickingerbrad
Apsara Performance 01 by flickingerbrad
Apsara Dancer 09 by flickingerbrad
Apsara Performance 04 by flickingerbrad
Apsara Dancer 06 by flickingerbrad
Apsara Performance 05 by flickingerbrad
Apsara Dancer 07 by flickingerbrad
Apsara Dancer 08 by flickingerbrad
Apsara Dancer 03 by flickingerbrad
Apsara Performance 06 by flickingerbrad
Apsara Dancer 04 by flickingerbrad
Apsara Performance 03 by flickingerbrad
Apsara Dancer 05 by flickingerbrad
Apsara Performance 02 by flickingerbrad
Apsara Dancer 11 by flickingerbrad
Apsara dancer 01 by flickingerbrad
Apsara Dancer 02 by flickingerbrad
Apsara Performance, Siem Reap by lynhdan
automatically generated by Flickr

The Apsara Dancer Showing the Movement of the Hand

Look at how the hands show a particular movement

The Apsara Movements are Taught Early

School in Phnom Penh

Kids are often chosen at an early age and suppleness and elegance of their hands is of utmost consideration. These kids when chosen start school at the Phnom Penh School of Fine Arts which has taken over the responsibility of training future Apsara dancers.They start with exercises to train the hands, feet, and body in the movements of the dance. They are also given the regular school lessons so they get their general education.

Apsara Dance, Khmer Dance School, Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Indochina, Southeast Asia

Apsara Dance,...
Bruno Morandi
Buy This at Allposters.com

The Apsara Dance at the Royal University of Fine Arts

Performances at the Chaktomuk Theater

Today, with the tireless commitment of Princess Norodom Bopha Devi, the Apsara dance is taught at the Secondary School of Fine Arts and continues to be performed in the Chaktomuk Theater. This prestigious free school accepts 50-60 new students each year. Half of these quit in their second year as this requires perseverance to complete the 9 years. Judged on their appearance, physical qualities and motivation, these students practice dancing from Monday to Saturday and then spend the afternoon for regular classes. Why so long?

Khmer classical dance of which Apsara is only one, demands extreme discipline in holding poses, arching backs and twisting arms and feet in difficult positions. And at the end of these arduous years, your salary is around $40. Overseas tours pay about $30 a day. Some of those who are still dancing, support their interest for their heritage by engaging in small businesses such as a tailoring shop or a beauty salon.

Performances now proliferate in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. A visit to Cambodia without seeing some part of the Apsara art would be just half a visit, so check carefully with your hotel for the next, nearest performance.

Cambodian Royalty and the Apsara Dance

Cambodian Royal Ballet

The Apsara dance practiced by the Khmers since the Angkorian period only became world renowned when the Cambodian royalty took interest once more in this great inheritance. Queen Sisowath Kosamak Naryrath saw the students of Sothearath primary school perform the Apsara dance during an awards ceremony to which she was invited. She hand picked the most likely young dancers from surrounding primary schools who had the requisite flexibility and athleticism.

Apsara movements require anatomy challenging stretching and bent-backward gestures which are better learned early, sometimes as early as five years old. These kids were trained in a school inside the palace and the Royal interest gave awareness and pride in Apsara dance a renewal that exploded with the inauguration of the World Art Festival in Singapore in 1977. Princess Norodom Bopha Devi, the daughter of then ruler, King Norodom Sihanouk performed as the prime ballerina of the acclaimed Cambodian Royal Ballet.

In the past, the Apsara dance was only performed for royalty. Today it is performed for everyone to the delight of the Cambodian people who now can rediscover their own heritage.

Apsara Dance Today

Shadows of the woodnymphs and reality

Today, these Apsara dances in all their richness and magical variations are still performed during rituals and ceremonies. The shadows between wood nymphs and reality, between the present and a magnificent history shift and blend and you need to pinch yourself to remember where you are.

Visitors, of course, can get a hint of the real performances by watching stage shows as part of dinnner buffets in many restaurants in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. There are some local theatres tied in with dance schools that try to do the more traditional dances, so look for these and see the real thing if it catches your sense of history.

These performances are easily arranged through your hotel or guide. They can easily reserve the tickets for you and also bring you to the place. It is often accompanied with a buffet dinner. You can often go up after the performance and have your pictures taken with the performers.

View Apsara Dance Today

Arttend one of the Apsara performances

Apsaras in the Angkorian Period

Around 3,000 of these Apsaras were in Jayavarman VII court

Apsara was widely practiced during the Angkorian era. As you go through the halls of the temples of Angkor, you can see images of these partially clad beauties adorning each alcove and cranny. It has been written that there were around 3,000 Apsara dancers in the court of the most powerful Angkor ruler, Jayavarman VII who ruled in the 12th century. Was this another style of Harem? Well, the sculpture certainly shows them as stunners! It's claimed that records show the Apsara Dance already practiced in the 8th century in the transition from woodland nymphs to real flesh and blood.

There are different versions of who the Apsaras really are. Some divide them into the heavenly ones and wordly ones. In fact, they have lists of names of Apsaras and interesting stories on them. They are often referred to as guardian angels, wives of royal court musicians, lesser goddesses, nymphs and what have you. The fact that they existed cannot be denied. The statues are well entrenched not only in the Angkor temples but other temples in India, Indonesia and Thailand. If you want to dig deep into this, click here.

The Angkorian Period

When the Apsaras adorned the temples

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Apsaras in the Angkor Temples

Apsara figures adorn many of the temples

Apsara Performances in Thailand, Laos and Vietnam

The Stretch of the Angkor Empire

Because of the expanse of the Angkorian empire at the peak of its power, it is not unusual to see similar Apsara performances in Thailand, Laos and even Vietnam. A stay in Bali will also bring back Angkorian memories. The intermingling of cultures during the ancient times, when kingdoms merged by marriages or military victories, was inevitable. The beat of one Kingdom was taken up by the invaders and the invaded and absorbed into their own legends.

Apsara in Three Ancient Kingdoms

The Intermingling of Cultures

When you visit the Mekong countries especially Thailand you will see similar dances as the Apsara. History tells us how much intermingling there was among these ancient Mekong kingdoms.

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The Angkor Civilization

The Context for Understanding the Apsara

The Angkor civilization is the context for the blossoming of the Apsara.

Angkor and the Khmer Civilization (Ancient Peoples and Places) by Michael D. Coe

Angkor and the Khmer Civilization (Ancient Peoples and Places) by Michael D. Coe

The ancient city of Angkor has fascinated Westerners more...0 points

The Civilization of Angkor by Charles Higham

The Civilization of Angkor by Charles Higham

In the late sixteenth century a mythical encounter more...0 points

The Origins of the Civilization of Angkor, Volume 4: The Excavation of Ban Non Wat. Part II: the Neolithic Occupation

The Origins of the Civilization of Angkor, Volume 4: The Excavation of Ban Non Wat. Part II: the Neolithic Occupation

This volume reports on the initial settlement of B more...0 points

Khmer Civilization and Angkor (Orchid Guides) by David L. Snellgrove

Khmer Civilization and Angkor (Orchid Guides) by David L. Snellgrove

An indispensible introduction to the history and c more...0 points

Khmer sculpture and the Angkor civilization by Madeline Giteau

Khmer sculpture and the Angkor civilization by Madeline Giteau

301 pages with 135 black & white photo illustr more...0 points

The Ancient Civilization of Angkor by Christopher Pym

The Ancient Civilization of Angkor by Christopher Pym

1968 paperback book is history of the ancient civi more...0 points

The Excavation of Ban Lum Khao (The Origins of Civilization of Angkor, Vol. 1) by Charles Higham

The Excavation of Ban Lum Khao (The Origins of Civilization of Angkor, Vol. 1) by Charles Higham

Ban Lum Khao is a prehistoric settlement in Nakhon more...0 points

The Origins of the Civilization of Angkor: The Excavation of Noen U-loke and Non Muang Kao (Classical Texts) by Charles F.W. Higham, A. Kijngam, S. Talbot

The Origins of the Civilization of Angkor: The Excavation of Noen U-loke and Non Muang Kao (Classical Texts) by Charles F.W. Higham, A. Kijngam, S. Talbot

Noen U-Loke and Non Muang Kao are two large, moate more...0 points

The Origins of the Civilization of Angkor, Volume 3: The Excavation of Ban Non Wat, Introduction by C.F.W. Higham

The Origins of the Civilization of Angkor, Volume 3: The Excavation of Ban Non Wat, Introduction by C.F.W. Higham

Ban Non Wat is the fourth major excavation underta more...0 points

Angkor Cambodia, Ancient Civilization, Khmer Empire by Richard Stone

Angkor Cambodia, Ancient Civilization, Khmer Empire by Richard Stone

A single-issue magazine with a feature cover story more...0 points

Interested in the Angkorian Period?

Choose one of these books to read

The Angkorian Period is worth reading as it controlled much of what is now Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Vietnam so its impact in these cultures are still visible today. This is why the Apsara is not only performed in Cambodia but in the neighboring countries as well. The Apsaras are depicted all over the walls of the Angkor temples.

The Measured Art: A Proportional Analysis of Early Khmer Sculpture by Nancy H. Dowling

The Measured Art: A Proportional Analysis of Early Khmer Sculpture by Nancy H. Dowling

The Measured Art: A Proportional Analysis of Early more...0 points

The Khmer Empire: Cities and Sactuaries from the 5th to the 13th Century by Claude Jacques

The Khmer Empire: Cities and Sactuaries from the 5th to the 13th Century by Claude Jacques

The richness and diversity of the Khmer Empire are more...0 points

Angkor Cambodia, Ancient Civilization, Khmer Empire by Richard Stone

Angkor Cambodia, Ancient Civilization, Khmer Empire by Richard Stone

A single-issue magazine with a feature cover story more...0 points

Kambojas, including: Khmer Empire, Early History Of Cambodia, Maitraka, Maues by Hephaestus Books

Kambojas, including: Khmer Empire, Early History Of Cambodia, Maitraka, Maues by Hephaestus Books

Hephaestus Books represents a new publishing parad more...0 points

A Short History of Cambodia: From Empire to Survival (A Short History of Asia series) by John Tully

A Short History of Cambodia: From Empire to Survival (A Short History of Asia series) by John Tully

In this concise and compelling history, Cambodia's more...0 points

Apsara gifts

Make your Khmer friends remember home

Yes, for Khmer New Year, get these for your family and friends.

Organic Baby Apsara T-Shirt

Baby pink t-shirt with the Apsara image

Price: $20.99 Buy Now

Organic Baby Bodysuit

Baby pink suit with Apsara image.

Price: $25.99 Buy Now

Apsara Cambodia Jr. Jersey T-Shirt

A white t-shirt with Apsara image for your Phnom Penh trip

Price: $22.99 Buy Now

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Apsara Dancer

Get this poster

More gifts with Apsara or Angkor design

You can give your Khmer friends

Here are gifts with Apsara designs, perfect for your Khmer friends.

Angkor Cambodia Kids Hoodie

Just what kids need to wear for those cool spring evenings of the Khmer New Year.

Price: $21.99 Buy Now

Long Sleeve Infant Bodysuit

For babies, get these bodysuits with Apsara image.

Price: $20.99 Buy Now

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The Apsara Dance in Cambodia

Watch this performance?

When in Cambodia, ask your guide to book you to watch one of these Apsara performances. It is one experience you will treaure.

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The Apsara is a truly classical dance

Practiced during the Angkorian times

Cambodian Performing Arts Steps into the Future

Amrita Performing Arts

Thanks to this international NGO, Amrita, Cambodian classical dance did not just remain in the museum of culture. It must be noted here that many Cambodians have not really seen this Apsara dance performed before because most perfomances were only for the King so unless you are part of the royal court, there was no way you would have a chance to watch these. Then, during the Khmer Rouge period, many of the artistic masters were killed, almost 90% of them, leaving a big gap in the performing arts. Amrita is now helping the young Cambodian artists take what is of great value in the classical performance arts and moving it to the future using their own creative talent. The founder, Fred Frumberg, first came to Cambodia with UNESCO to revive and preserve Cambodia's legacy in the performing arts. To sustain this initial effort, Frumberg organized Amrita and today, it is helping the Cambodian artists in their creative effort.

The Apsara Dance on Videos

Watch the movements

Apsara
by zoliejater | video info

186 ratings | 111,022 views
curated content from YouTube

Make your own Videos

Of the Apsara Dance

Yes, bring your own camcorder and make your own videos. You can post it afterwards and share these with others. Make sure you get a high definition camcorder.

Toshiba Camileo X100 Full-HD Camcorder - Silver/Black

Toshiba Camileo X100 Full-HD Camcorder - Silver/Black

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Panasonic HDC-TM41H HD Camcorder with 16GB Internal Flash Memory

Panasonic HDC-TM41H HD Camcorder with 16GB Internal Flash Memory

Panasonic HDC-TM41 Digital Camcorder - 2.7" L more...0 points

ContourROAM Hands-free HD Camcorder

ContourROAM Hands-free HD Camcorder

HD VIDEO: 3 resolution modes. LIGHTWEIGHT: 5.1oz, more...0 points

Canon VIXIA HF R21 Full HD Camcorder with 32GB Internal Flash Memory

Canon VIXIA HF R21 Full HD Camcorder with 32GB Internal Flash Memory

The VIXIA HF R21 allows you to record up to 12 hou more...0 points

Samsung HMX-Q10 HD Camcorder Ultra Compact with 10x Optical Zoom (Black)

Samsung HMX-Q10 HD Camcorder Ultra Compact with 10x Optical Zoom (Black)

Ultra compact full HD cam with Extreme Easiness0 points

Toshiba Camileo S20 Full-HD Camcorder Bundle - Silver/Black

Toshiba Camileo S20 Full-HD Camcorder Bundle - Silver/Black

The S20 fits in every pocket.At 2/3 thin and 3.5 o more...0 points

Canon VIXIA HF R200 Full HD Camcorder with Dual SDXC Card Slots

Canon VIXIA HF R200 Full HD Camcorder with Dual SDXC Card Slots

The VIXIA HF R200 allows you to record crisp high more...0 points

Toshiba Camileo H30 Full HD Camcorder - Silver/Black

Toshiba Camileo H30 Full HD Camcorder - Silver/Black

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Canon VIXIA HF R20 Full HD Camcorder with 8GB Internal Flash Memory (Black)

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Canon VIXIA HF M41 Full HD Camcorder with HD CMOS Pro and 32GB Internal Flash Memory

Canon VIXIA HF M41 Full HD Camcorder with HD CMOS Pro and 32GB Internal Flash Memory

Canon VIXIA HF M41 Full HD Digital Camcorder - 3-I more...0 points

Toshiba Camileo S30 Full HD Camcorder (Silver/Black)

Toshiba Camileo S30 Full HD Camcorder (Silver/Black)

The S30 fits in every pocket! At 3/4" thin an more...0 points

Samsung HMX-Q10 HD Camcorder Ultra Compact with 10x Optical Zoom (Dark Blue)

Samsung HMX-Q10 HD Camcorder Ultra Compact with 10x Optical Zoom (Dark Blue)

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Samsung HMX-H300 Full HD Camcorder with 30x Zoom (Black)

Samsung HMX-H300 Full HD Camcorder with 30x Zoom (Black)

The 24mm wide angle lens offers extraordinarily la more...0 points

Flip UltraHD Video Camera - Black, 8 GB, 2 Hours (3rd Generation) NEWEST MODEL

Flip UltraHD Video Camera - Black, 8 GB, 2 Hours (3rd Generation) NEWEST MODEL

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Canon VIXIA HF M400 Full HD Camcorder with HD CMOS Pro and Dual SDXC Card Slots

Canon VIXIA HF M400 Full HD Camcorder with HD CMOS Pro and Dual SDXC Card Slots

Canon VIXIA HF M400 Full HD Digital Camcorder - 3- more...0 points

Panasonic HDC-TM80K HD Twin Memory Camcorder (Black)

Panasonic HDC-TM80K HD Twin Memory Camcorder (Black)

Panasonic HDC-TM80 2.7-Inch Touch LCD Full HD Digi more...0 points

Veho VCC-002 Kuzo High Definition 1080p SD Camcorder (20x Optical/digital zoom) 3.0 inch Touchscreen

Veho VCC-002 Kuzo High Definition 1080p SD Camcorder (20x Optical/digital zoom) 3.0 inch Touchscreen

Record and Share your life in true high definition more...0 points

Canon VIXIA HF M40 Full HD Camcorder with HD CMOS Pro and 16GB Internal Flash Memory

Canon VIXIA HF M40 Full HD Camcorder with HD CMOS Pro and 16GB Internal Flash Memory

Canon VIXIA HF M40 Full HD Digital Camcorder 3-Inc more...0 points

VIVITAR® HIGH DEFINITION (HD) DIGITAL CAMERA/CAMCORDER

VIVITAR® HIGH DEFINITION (HD) DIGITAL CAMERA/CAMCORDER

HD QUALITY VIDEO - POWERFUL FEATURES - COMPACT SIZ more...0 points

Canon VIXIA HF G10 Full HD Camcorder with HD CMOS Pro and 32GB Internal Flash Memory

Canon VIXIA HF G10 Full HD Camcorder with HD CMOS Pro and 32GB Internal Flash Memory

Canon VIXIA HF G10 Full HD Digital Camcorder with more...0 points

Sony HDR-CX160 High-Definition Handycam Camcorder (Black)

Sony HDR-CX160 High-Definition Handycam Camcorder (Black)

Capture amazing 1920 x 1080 Full HD video with the more...0 points

Classical dance costumes

Not for Apsara though

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Watch how intricate the hand movements are

Apsara Performance at Koulen 2, Siem Reap Cambodia, Part 3
by amandajv82 | video info

1 rating | 1,278 views
curated content from YouTube

Apsara in Music

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Celebrating Dance in Cambodia

Apsara in Cambodia Today

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Pink Ballet Shoes for kids

Pink Ballet Shoes for kids

Soft pink leather ballet dress up shoes come with more...2 points

Aurora Ballet Slippers

Aurora Ballet Slippers

An official Disney Princess product. These lovely Light more...1 point

Child Pink Ballet Slippers

Child Pink Ballet Slippers

Whether you want to be a prima ballerina or Barbie more...1 point

Disney Princess Pink Sequin Shoes/Ballet Flats Featuring Rapunzel, Belle and Mulan (Size 10) by Disney Store

Disney Princess Pink Sequin Shoes/Ballet Flats Featuring Rapunzel, Belle and Mulan (Size 10) by Disney Store

Dance just like Disney Princesses Rapunzel, Belle more...1 point

Belle Costume Ballet Slippers

Belle Costume Ballet Slippers

BELLE COSTUME BALLET SLIPPERSDisney Costume Accessories(Item more...0 points

Children's Costume Tinker Bell Ballet Slippers

Children's Costume Tinker Bell Ballet Slippers

Tinkerbell Ballet Slippers consists of Cloth ballet more...0 points

Child Tinker Bell Ballet Slippers

Child Tinker Bell Ballet Slippers

Complete your Disney costume with Child Tinker Bel more...0 points

PINK BALLET SHOES Pinback Button 1.25

PINK BALLET SHOES Pinback Button 1.25" Pin / Badge ~ Ballerina

These buttons are manufactured from the highest qu more...0 points

Spike Heel Ballet Fetish Shoes with Ankle Strap - 15

Spike Heel Ballet Fetish Shoes with Ankle Strap - 15

7 inch heel fetish ankle shoes with ankle strap. T more...0 points

Sexy Fetish White High Heel Ballet Shoes - 14

Sexy Fetish White High Heel Ballet Shoes - 14

Fetish ankle shoes had adjustable strap in front. more...0 points

Disney Belle Ballet Slippers

Disney Belle Ballet Slippers

Indooe ballet slippers will fit most children ages more...0 points

What's news about Apsara?

Get the recent updates on apsara

ART & ENTERTAINMENT IN BRIEF 10/5
More than 40 Vietnamese and international dancers will gather to dance for a fund-raiser hosted by Apsara Dance Studio on Saturday. The event is targeted to raise money for underprivileged children via the Blue Dragon Children Foundation ? a grassroots ...
Ayai singer Sin Sophea
Hip-hop, break dance, and romantic Khmer pop songs are undoubtedly the top choices for today's music buffs across the Kingdom. But Sin Sophea, a singer of Ayai ? or Khmer traditional music ? has different tastes. Today, Sin Sophea performs traditional ...
Badi Bombat!
Posters announcing new plays in the 1920s often screamed out the presence of ?gori missein?, who promised to enchant with their songs and dances. These added attractions stepped stepped into films in the garb of the vamp and grew popular in the '30s ...
Shopping around for golden era rock 'n' roll
... pointing at the portrait of a striking woman in Apsara costume. ?It's a Twist song, you know?? and starts humming the melody. The Twist is often referred to by music historians as the first worldwide dance craze; little do they know how worldwide, ...

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Have you ever celebrated new year in April? Cambodia's Khmer celebrate New Year not on January 1 as in the western world or on assorted dates in February as ...

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The preparation for the 2012 Cambodia Water Festival has already begun. Big dreams are on especially for those who want to compete in the naga boat race. The...

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These special angels blessed this lens on Apsara

And made it truly special

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Hope you enjoyed this Apsara lens

Your comment will be much appreciated

  • entertainmenteveryday May 21, 2012 @ 11:57 am | delete
    Thank you for sharing! I love learning about dances around the world. I enjoyed the pictures and video. I hope to see a live performance someday.
  • grannysage May 11, 2012 @ 3:30 pm | delete
    So beautiful and so much more enjoyable now that I have a little more understanding what the dances mean. I'm so glad that this classic dance is still being taught today.
  • aesta1 May 19, 2012 @ 10:42 am | delete
    Thank you for enjoying it.
  • Tipi May 1, 2012 @ 4:39 pm | delete
    I'm amazed that I failed to bless this when I was here last year, so am sprinkling angel dust over this lovely gem now...it already sparkles beautifully!
  • aesta1 May 1, 2012 @ 8:34 pm | delete
    Thank you again Tipi. You are always very supportive.
  • CruiseReady Apr 25, 2012 @ 7:52 am | delete
    What amazing dancers... and the carvings on the temples are just beautiful.
  • aesta1 May 1, 2012 @ 8:34 pm | delete
    They really are. In fact, I got a stone one for my house.
  • sousababy Feb 2, 2012 @ 9:15 pm | delete
    Wow, this dancing elegant, feminine and yet has an inner strength and meaning behind each movement. Love the costumes. Thank you for sharing.
  • aesta1 Apr 1, 2012 @ 7:16 am | delete
    The movements are very intricate expressing meanings woven into their culture.
  • tembrooke Jan 30, 2012 @ 8:42 pm | delete
    Lovely images! The costumes are amazing.
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Buddha Wept: A Novel of Terror and Transcendence

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