Abstract

The Royal Dance of Cambodia (របាំព្រះរាជទ្រព្យ) is one of the oldest ritual performances in Southeast Asia. Its repertoires consist of approximately 40 different dances and 60 dance dramas. The dance has a very unique costume with gold and silver accessories. Besides their luxurious costumes and makeup, the characteristics of the performers are also exclusive. Unlike other performances, the dancers are mainly female, and some of them dress up as male characters during their performance. Every movement and gesture convey different messages according to the story in the dance drama.