Apsara Theatre | Siem Reap

live the reamker

OUR STORY

Since 1997, Siem Reap’s oldest Theatre contributes to the revival of Khmer Traditional Dances, and the preservation of Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage.

Built in a traditional semi-colonial style, the Apsara Theatre is imbued with a grandiose energy. From its original wooden exterior to its antique décor and marquee lights; the magic of the old theatre is alive and well.

Madam Net has been training dancers and promoting Khmer performing arts since the 1980s. Today, a troupe of 30 artists perform renditions of the ancient Reamker legends, and folk dances from rural Cambodia.

PROGRAM

Apsara Theatre interior with traditional seatings

On evenings, the Apsara Theatre opens its doors to showcase Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage, our traditional performing arts. Dancers, singers and musicians will perform 3 classical and 2 village dances to the music of the traditional orchestra. The performance will be preceded by a beverage service and an authentic meal.

Dinner Show every evening
Dinner is served at 7:30pm
The performance lasts from 8.30pm to 9:30pm
Starting from $33
Restaurant style seating available upstair

PERFORMANCES

Classical Dances

A highly stylized dance form originating from the royal courts, classical dances feature elaborately costumed dancers performing slow and figurative movements invoking the tales of ancient epic poems.

Folk Dances

Village Dances are rooted in Khmer rural folklore, each corresponding to a specific fable, holiday or belief. As these dances have become rare in their village settings, their preservation today is of great importance.

The Reamker

The Reamker is a Cambodian epic poem based on the Sanskrit’s Ramayana. The traditional dances derived from it date back to ancient Angkor as extravagant displays of adoration for the gods and Khmer mythology.