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From Ritual Form to Tourist Attraction: Negotiating the Transformation of Classical Cambodian Dance in a Changing World

From Ritual Form to Tourist Attraction: Negotiating the Transformation of Classical Cambodian Dance in a Changing World

By Celia Tuchman-Rosta

Asian Theatre Journal, Volume 31, Number 2, Fall 2014, pp. 524-544

Published by University of Hawai’i Press

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1353/atj.2014.0033

 

Brief Introduction:

This article explores how classical Cambodian dance, historically a ritualistic performing art form, adapts to changing environments while maintaining social relevance. Focusing on the dinner-dance show phenomenon from 2011-2012, I investigate negotiations that were taking place between the preservation and development of the arts in Siem Reap. The article provides three case studies that frame artists experiences of the time period. The data included in this article is based on dissertation fieldwork generously supported by the Center for Khmer Studies and the Fulbright Program of the Institute of International Education.

A tourist captures an iconic photo of Apsara dancing at Koulen Restaurant (31 March 2012).

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