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| Temple Apsara Balcony |
| The Apsara Dance is a traditional classical Khmer dance that traces its origins to the apsarases of Hindu mythology, heavenly female nymphs who were born to dance for the gods. |
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| There are two forms of Apsara Dance, classic ballet and “today” dancing which depicts early myths such as The Churning Of The Sea Of Milk where great gods and devils fought to extract the elixir of immortality from the aforementioned sea. There are 100 dances or dramas. Unlike any other form of dance in the world it uses sinuous hand gestures and sensuous body movements to convey deep meaning. Each slow, elegant and graceful movement, gesture, symbolizes something specific. A finger to the sky means “today”, arms crossed over the chest “very happy”, left arm stretched out behind with the right hand held before the chest, three fingers up with index finger touching the thumb indicates the legendary Naga, the many headed serpent that is evident throughout khmer history. Each dance has four typical roles, male, female, giant and the monkey, all with the exception of the monkey are played by women who are trained in the art of dance from a very early age. |
| Dressed in brightly coloured tunics and long flowing skirts with elaborate ornate headdresses the Apsara Dancers enter the stage with incredible grace, glistening with jewelry from adorned head to bare foot. The dance is performed with the accompaniment of an orchestra known as the Pinpeat which is made up of drums, gongs and bamboo xylophones. The music they produce adds an almost ethereal feel to each performance and is unique in its own right. |
| The Apsara Dance was once only performed for kings and royalty but is now accessible to everyone and we here at the Temple Balcony are proud to present our nightly performances of this truly magical experience. Located on “Pub Street” in the heart of Siem Reap town we offer the perfect venue to witness the amazing Apsara Dance, and we offer it FREE of charge. Each performance begins at 7.30p.m and ends at 9.30p.m. |
| The Temple Balcony is large and airy and affords ample seating (although it would be wise to arrive early to avoid disappointment!). A large and varied menu comprising the finest Khmer, Thai and Chinese cuisines we can offer is available for those of you that wish to dine. Western dishes are also in abundance, pizzas, pastas, salads and sandwiches, starters and main courses are all featured to satisfy your tastes at very affordable prices. An la carte menu is available on request. |
| Our fully stocked bar is on hand to provide you with drinks of your choice, from icy cold beers, spirits and cocktails through to fine red and white wines by the glass/bottle. Soft drinks, fruit shakes and juices etc are also offered. Specials everyday, check boards for details.So come along and enjoy the beautiful and inspiring Apsara Dance in our comfortable and uniquely Khmer setting whilst drinking and dining the sultry Cambodian night away, we promise you won’t regret it. |
| Apsara Dance:- 7.30 pm – 9.30 pm nightly.. |
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