Day 3: THE ANGELIC DANCE OF THE KHMERS

Attend a moving and beautiful performance by Apsara dancers, accompanied by wistful and mesmerizing traditional music. Apsaras, often depicted as shape-shifting nymphs, are central to Cambodia’s cultural identity, and have been for centuries. Countless figures of Apsaras adorn the temples of Angkor Wat as bas-relief carvings. The embodiment of refined elegance, they appear throughout the complex wearing all manner of headdress, clothing and jewelry. The spirit of these deities comes to life during an evening of Apsara dance, a graceful performance style associated with the late Khmer Empire. Dances typically recount classical myths or religious tales. During the performance, admire the seamless gestures of these artists and marvel at their gilded and garlanded headdresses, vivid garments and elaborate bracelets and anklets. As they move through their dance with a trance-like expression, you are sure to be transfixed.Read more