Phare Ponleu Selpak’s 30th Birthday to be Celebrated with Three Festivals

Phare Ponleu Selpak is gearing up for a triple celebration in Phnom Penh this March, marking its impressive 30-year journey in Cambodia with a trio of vibrant festivals. In 2024, the organization is set to host three dynamic events over three days, showcasing the diverse realms of art and culture.

Kicking off the festivities on March 1 and 2 is the Contemporary Dance Performance, titled ‘Madison Now.’ Directed and choreographed by the acclaimed Michael Laub, with additional choreography by Khen Vanthy, the event promises an unforgettable experience at the John Crawford Theatre, Canadian International School, Koh Pich, starting at 7.30 pm. Tickets are available at $5, $10, or $20.

On March 2, the 30th Anniversary Charity Gala unfolds at Rosewood Phnom Penh, starting at 6 pm. This grand affair will feature an art auction, live painting, circus acts, and theatre performances, accompanied by a sumptuous four-course dinner and the option for a luxurious stay. Tickets for this exclusive event are priced at $150, with full tables available for $1,500.

The curtain closes on the festivities on March 3 with the Contemporary Theatre Performance, a collaboration between Cabaret of Dreams and The Acting Academy. Held at Bar Menaka, Koh Pich, tickets for this cultural extravaganza are priced at $20 and include a complimentary drink.

Beyond these celebratory events, Phare Ponleu Selpak continues its mission as a non-profit arts school that empowers children, youth, and communities. Originating from drawing workshops at the Site 2 refugee camp on the Thai-Cambodia border, the school, established in 1994 on the outskirts of Battambang, now engages over 800 students daily in artistic and cultural activities, ranging from music, dance, and visual arts to theatre, circus, animation, and graphic design.

In addition to these festivities, Phare Ponleu Selpak recently held its inaugural Sangker River Run on January 20, a 30-kilometer running and cycling event that kickstarted the year-long 30th-anniversary celebrations. The run saw 140 participants from 14 countries, with notable winners including Hiroshi Ake from Japan in the solo running category and Oliver Rene Bodicker from Germany in the solo cycling category. The event raised $34,498.07, contributing to the school’s art and education programs in Battambang province.

Adding more flavor to Phnom Penh’s lifestyle, these celebrations not only commemorate Phare Ponleu Selpak’s remarkable journey but also offer a unique blend of art, culture, and community engagement for residents and visitors alike.

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Tom Starkey
Author: Tom Starkey

Tom Starkey is an International Development graduate from Sussex University with 12-years of experience across 4 continents, Tom's goal is that he wants to showcase his love for Cambodia, where he lives, works and now happily calls home.