Workshop Schedule | October 21st - 25th

Location: Hot House

October 21st opening ceremony 9:00 a.m.

10:00 - 11:30 am | Cambodian Dance
Wattanak Dance Troupe

In this workshop, Wattanak Dance Troupe will guide participants through the basics of Cambodian dance, focusing on foundational movements and the cultural philosophy that shapes them. Discover how this art form intertwines with nature, everyday life, and the divine, reflecting the harmony between the dancer, the natural world, and spiritual realms. Through practice and discussion, participants will learn how the elements of nature inspire graceful movements and how dance serves as a profound connection to both life and the divine.

11:30 - 1:00 pm | Khmer Dance
Khmae Urban Ballet

Join us for an immersive workshop exploring the transformation of Khmer classical dance from its royal origins to modern expressions. Participants will experience the elegance of traditional Khmer dance, its evolution, and discover how these dances maintain their cultural essence while adapting to contemporary influences. Whether you're a dancer, historian, or culture enthusiast, this workshop offers a unique insight into Cambodian classical dance's rich legacy and ongoing evolution. Participants will engage in movement exercises designed to expand their range of expression, allowing them to communicate a broader spectrum of emotions through dance. This workshop aims to push the boundaries of traditional forms, helping dancers develop a more nuanced and powerful movement language.

1:00 - 1:30 | Lunch Break

1:30 - 3:00 pm | Lakhon Khoal 
Roza Lay

Lakhon Khoal is a traditional Cambodian masked dance-drama that brings to life the stories from the "Reamker," Cambodia's own version of the ancient Indian epic, the "Ramayana." Through its vibrant and dramatic performances, Lakhon Khoal plays a crucial role in preserving and celebrating Cambodia's cultural heritage and artistic traditions. In this workshop we will explore a brief history of Cambodia to understand the cultural and artistic context of the performance. We will learn choreography of a contemporary piece that artfully blends the distinct characteristics of two prominent Lakhon Khoal characters: the giant and the monkey. This piece is designed to be powerful and high-energy, offering a dynamic portrayal that captures the vibrancy and complexity of this traditional art form, while also introducing modern elements.

*This program is subject to change.