Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts brings yet another in a long list of incredible cultural dance events, with The Royal Ballet Of Cambodia, Thursday, November 06 2014, with one dazzling performance at 8PM
Renowned for its graceful hand gestures and stunning costumes, the Royal Ballet of Cambodia has been recognized by UNESCO for carrying on the 1,000-year-old Khmer classical dance style, which was originally performed at royal events and ceremonies. The gestures and poses of Khmer classical dance, mastered by the performers only after years of intensive training, evoke the gamut of human emotions, from fear and rage to love and joy. An orchestra accompanies the dance, and a female chorus provides a running commentary on the plot, highlighting the emotions mimed by the dancers, who were considered the kings' messengers to the gods and to the ancestors.
Infused with a sacred and symbolic role, the dance embodies the traditional values of refinement, respect and spirituality. Its repertory perpetuates the legends associated with the origins of the Khmer people. Consequently, Cambodians have long esteemed this tradition as the emblem of Khmer culture. Four distinct character types exist in the classical repertory: Neang the woman, Neayrong the man, Yeak the giant, and Sva the monkey. Each possesses distinctive colors, costumes, makeup and masks
The Royal Ballet practically ceased to exist under the repressive rule of the Khmer Rouge, who eliminated almost all master dancers and musicians. Immediately after Pol Pot's defeat in 1979, dance troupes re-emerged and performances of the ancient repertory resumed. The ballet has regained much of its former splendor but still faces numerous difficulties, such as a lack of funding and suitable performance spaces, competition from modern media and the risk of becoming a mere tourist attraction.
Tickets: $50/$40/$30 - available at Music Hall Box Office 313 887-8501 or www.ticketmaster.com www.startickets.com
Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts
Jazz Café
350 Madison
Detroit, MI 48226
(313) 887-8501