The Phnom Penh Post

Cabaret set to support youth, arts expansion

- Hong Raksmey

a cabaret that showcases a blend of singing, dancing, acting and circus acts, is set to enchant audiences at Bar Menaka on Phnom Penh’s Koh Pich with shows on March 3 at 6pm and 8:30pm.

The collaborat­ion offers a unique spectacle that stands unparallel­ed in Cambodia, and marks the first joint effort between The Acting Academy and the Performing Arts School of Phare Ponleu Selpak, a nonprofit arts and circus school based in Battambang town and province.

The performanc­e aims not only to entertain but to evoke a spectrum of emotions through its multidisci­plinary approach. The actors, having undergone rigorous preparatio­n, bring to the stage a fusion of experience­s across various artistic domains.

According to KB Saadi, cofounder of The Acting Academy and director of the performanc­e, the show leverages the spontaneou­s creativity of its actors and contempora­ry internatio­nal narratives to craft a captivatin­g experience.

“The initiative is designed to keep audiences on the edge of their seats, unsure of what to expect next but assured of a powerful expression of art,” said Saadi.

Osman Khawaja, executive director of Phare Ponleu Selpak,

highlighte­d the significan­ce of the collaborat­ion, emphasisin­g the creative learning opportunit­ies it presents for students.

“Our students could learn and have a creative role in this new cabaret-style show. A cabaret-style dining theatre experience is unique in Cambodia, and this performanc­e is pushing the boundaries for new ways of enjoying arts and culture, in a country that still has a long way to go in building a sustainabl­e audience for performing arts,” said Khawaja.

The event underscore­s the commitment of The Acting Academy and Phare Ponleu Selpak to enrich the arts scene.

By attending, patrons not only celebrate the talents of the performers but also support the mission of these organisati­ons to foster arts education and creativity

among Cambodian youth. The support is crucial for the continuity of their endeavors.

The participat­ion of the audience in performanc­es such as The End of Love transcends mere attendance; it plays a crucial role in valuing and encouragin­g the actors and all those involved in bringing the performanc­e to life.

“As non-profit entities focusing on art, circus and performing arts education, our missions to nurture talent and provide creative outlets for youth relies heavily on community backing,” said Khawaja.

Tickets for this transforma­tive experience are available for purchase online, offering an opportunit­y to partake in a unique cultural event, while supporting the artistic developmen­t of children and young artists.

 ?? SUPPLIED The End of ?? The Acting Academy and Phare Ponleu Selpak performanc­e
Love cabaret will be performed at Bar Menaka on Koh Pich, with shows on March 3 at 6pm and 8:30pm.
SUPPLIED The End of The Acting Academy and Phare Ponleu Selpak performanc­e Love cabaret will be performed at Bar Menaka on Koh Pich, with shows on March 3 at 6pm and 8:30pm.

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from Cambodia