Royal Ballet marks 20th anniversary as ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity’

On the 20th anniversary of the inclusion of the Royal Ballet in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list yesterday, the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts (MCFA) said that it has worked hard to promote the Royal Ballet or Khmer Classical Dance through performances in national and international events over many years.

The Royal Ballet was inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list on November 7, 2003 in Istanbul, Turkey.

The Royal Ballet is a form of sacred dance that is famous for its gentle gestures, which are admirable and artistic.

The dance involves skillful use of movements, gestures, and emotions according to the storyline, which is accompanied by choir and a Pinpeat orchestra.

On the occasion of the 20th anniversary, the government, together with ministries, national and sub-national institutions, sent messages on social media to express their congratulations, but no significant ceremony was held.

Director General of Techniques for Cultural Affairs, Siyonn Sophearith, said that the Ministry has strived to promote the Royal Ballet through performances over the years and now he sees it as a significant revival of the Royal Ballet.

“At the same time, the secondary school of Fine Arts are providing training to students on the techniques and skills to maintain this art form for generations to come,” he added.

Head of the Department of Performing Arts Chheang Chhada Pheak confirmed that on the anniversary no major ceremony was held, but the dancers are rehearsing the Royal Ballet for performances at the Water Festival, charity events at Angkor park, Sea Festival in Kep and many other events.

“After the Royal Ballet was listed, there have been many performances, both nationally and internationally, and at the end of this year, the Royal Ballet will perform in ASEAN countries and China, he said.

In addition to the performances, the Department of Performing Arts has also researched and documented the Royal Ballet and other dances, he added.

The 20th anniversary is a great day and he calls on people across the country to revere and preserve this national heritage, he said.

Participating in the preservation of the cultural heritage is to show support by attending performances, encouraging the artists, which is the most important factor in preserving this art form, he added.

Sothik Hok, Director of Sipar, an NGO, said they are offering a 20% discount on book sales entitled ‘Khmer Classical Dance’ to celebrate the anniversary.

The book describes the royal dances, clothing and accessories and is aimed at explaining it to younger people.

He noted that the Royal Ballet is a sacred dance and in the past was performed for the Royal family, high-ranking officials and international visitors, but now it is available to the masses.