It may rightly be said that no visit to Cambodia would be complete without watching some of the traditional dances of the nation. Visitors to this vibrant nation seeking comfortable Siem Reap accommodation will find an excellent choice in the attractive Anantara Angkor Resort & Spa. This reputed hotel offers appealing interiors and a selection of contemporary amenities.
The much admired Apsara Dance is one of the most attractive artistic forms of the nation of Cambodia. Interestingly this form of dance is considered to have been inspired by the sculptures and carvings of apsaras (celestial maidens) to be seen on the palace and temple compounds of Angkor. This dance form had its inception in the latter years of the 1940s when this dance style developed through the patronage of the Queen of Cambodia, Sisowath Kossamak. In fact it was her granddaughter and student Bopha Devi who was the initial exponent and star of this new style of dance.
The principal character of the Apsara Dance is undoubtedly Mera, the leader of a group of apsaras who takes the heavenly maidens along a visit to a garden of flowers. These elegant apsaras enjoy the sights and aromas of the garden delighting in these pleasant surroundings. The movements and gestures of the dance demonstrate great affinity with the local Classical dance forms. However as the dance was created with theatrical performance in mind, it is shorter in length and more flowing and relaxed in presentation than the older Classical dance forms. These features make the Apsara Dance an attractive spectacle even for modern audiences from a different part of the world who are unfamiliar with traditional Cambodian dance.
It is often observed that even visitors from abroad who know nothing about the stories and style of Khmer dance are enthralled by the evocative movements of the graceful Apsara Dance. For an authentic glimpse into Cambodian culture, ensure that you view one of these captivating performances on your trip to this nation.
Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.
