Royal Ballet of Cambodia

Royal Ballet of Cambodia
របាំព្រះរាជទ្រព្យ
Cambodia Royal Ballet
CountryCambodia
DomainsPerforming arts
Reference553
RegionAsia and the Pacific
Inscription history
Inscription7 November 2003 (18th session)
ListInscribed in 2008 (3.COM) on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity (originally proclaimed in 2003)

The Royal Ballet of Cambodia (Khmer: របាំព្រះរាជទ្រព្យ, Robam Preah Reach Troap, lit.'Dance of Royal Wealth') is a classical Khmer dance known for its intricate hand movements and elaborate costumes. Historically linked to the Khmer court, it has been performed at various royal ceremonies such as coronations, weddings, funerals, and Khmer holidays. The repertoire includes various ancient Khmer legends.[1]

The ballet faced near extinction during the Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s but continues to be a significant cultural heritage of Cambodia, reflecting traditional values of refinement, respect, and spirituality of the Khmer people.[1] It has been inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists since 2003.