Brochure: Khmer Performing Arts Ensemble
Datec. 1994
Mediumpaper
ClassificationsInformation Artifacts
Credit LineConnecticut Cultural Heritage Arts Program collections
CopyrightIn Copyright
Object number2015.196.126
DescriptionBrochure for the Khmer Performing Arts Ensemble, Cambodian Classical and Folk Dance, led by Sokhanarith Moeur.
NotesSubject Note: The Khmer Performing Arts Ensemble, based in Niantic, Connecticut in the early 1990s, was a 12-member Cambodian traditional dance troupe founded by Somaly Hay and Sokhanarith Moeur. Both women came to the United States in the mid-1980s as refugees from the Khmer Rouge genocide in Cambodia. Both were trained in classical and folk dance in Cambodia and believed in the importance of sustaining traditions for the generations born in the United States. Somaly, who trained at the Royal Palace, performed and led classical dance, and Sokhanarith, trained at the University of Fine Arts, performed and led folk dance. With musical accompaniment by traditional Cambodian musicians from across New England, the troupe performed widely throughout the East Coast in the early 1990s. The Khmer Performing Arts Ensemble, with artistic director Phan Phoung and Sokhanarith Moeur, continued to teach and perform for a few years, while Somaly Hay formed a new performing group and also was a dance instructor and educator.Additional materials exist in the CCHAP archive for these artists.
Cataloging Note: This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services MA-245929-OMS-20.
Status
Not on view
1980-1999
John Monteiro
2005 June 19
