This lively folk dance depicts the daily life of Khmer farmers and fishermen, who dance with traditional bamboo fish­ing equipment such as the ang rut (a braided bell-like bamboo trap), and chneang, trou, lop (braided bamboo baskets). Traditionally, fishing quarters often served as a meeting place far young couples. A charming courting scene ends the piece with playful teasing among the young men and women, making this dance very popular among audiences today.

The dance was choreographed in 1967 by Mr. Vann Sun Heng, and supervised by Prof. Chheng Phon. It was performed from 1967 until 1975, and has been revived since 1979.

Photo credit: travelfootprints

Traditional Folk Dance Refers to all kinds of dances that are passed on from one generation to another and that are often linked to an ethnic group’s traditional’ ceremonies. In Cambodia, traditional dances mostly involve animism and express beliefs in the super­natural.  Khmer DanceWhen people have problems thought to have been caused by super­natural or spirits, they offer lively dances to appease them.

Folk dances are performed at religious ceremonies, festivities, and for leisurely entertainment. Traditionally, all dances were performed in the village in large clearings or public areas at times of birth, marriage, death, during planting and harvesting, hunting, war, or at a feast. Some dances are related to Buddhist beliefs such as Kgnork Pailin and Trot dances. Others are performed once a year according to various spiritual and cere­monial calendars.

Khmer folk dances are highly spirited dances that follow popular themes with lively movements and gestures. Dance motifs are usually based on local legends and the everyday life of the people. Dancers dance with easy, improvised yet composed movements that are designed to invite humor and enthusiasm, with an upbeat music and rhythm. Many dances are accompanied by drums and instru­ments from the 111ohori and pill peat ensemble. Source: khmerguide.com