Phare: The Cambodian Circus Show in Siem Reap

Visit: Phare, The Cambodian Circus, Intersection of Ring Road and Sok San Road South of intersection with Sok San Road, Siem Reap 17253 Cambodia

Phare Ponleu Selpak (PPS), a non-governmental organization, was established in 1994 by eight young Cambodians who returned to their country after a childhood spent in refugee camps at the Thai border. Recognizing the importance of preserving their culture and Khmer art, the founders developed social and educational programs for vulnerable children living in difficult situations — including street kids, trafficked children and orphans.

PPS has used theater and circus arts to help them reintegrate into society, vastly improving the choices available to these young people as they reach adulthood.

You'll see PPS's positive impact on the talented performers of Phare, a circus arts troupe that performs different shows throughout the year. The show (see below for the list of performances) elevates Cambodian culture, history and beliefs through music, dance, acrobatics, juggling, aerial arts, contortion and other circus skills.

You have the choice of open seating, or select an upgrade to preferred seating in front center rows that includes refillable sports water bottle with cold water (Section A only)

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ITINERARY
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Sokrias (Eclipse)

Steeped in Cambodian culture and popular beliefs, Eclipse is a tale of discrimination. A young man, who suffers from rejection because of his difference, prays for divine intervention. The gods transform him into a very attractive woman who suddenly receives a lot of positive attention until a mysterious plague begins to consume all the villagers.

Khmer Metal

An edgy, progressive and modern tale about urban life. In a funky Phnom Penh rock bar, the well-connected owner, small dealer and occasional fraudster, is used to getting into trouble with his ‘brother,’ the nominal bar security guard. Don't be surprised to feel reverberations in your chest as Phare musicians pound on drums.

Sokha

The story of the eponymous war child who is haunted by visions of the Cambodian Civil War and the destruction after the Khmer Rouge regime.This is the story of Sokha’s journey where memories take on a surreal twist into myths and facts. The performance uses different art forms such as circus, visual art, traditional Khmer music and dance.

Preu (Chills)

A bold performance that taps into the fears and anxieties of human beings. The show focuses on supernatural events in a classroom, where students face their fears in order to overcome them.

Putho

The show title translates to ‘Oh My God!’ in Khmer, and this allegory highlights the relationship between boys and girls in Cambodia today. Acrobatic, juggling, balancing, tightrope walking and contortion techniques are accompanied by exquisite live music using both traditional and modern instruments. Its extravagant characters offer an artistic vision of their society’s evolution through an explosion of virtuosity and humor.

Same Same but Different

Through a series of everyday situations, “Same Same But Different” explores the different habits and ways of living between Cambodians and foreign visitors. A sudden downpour, an unexpected power outage, a hectic boat trip and a relaxing dinner all provide the backdrops for funny encounters and opposing perspectives. But in every situation they find understanding and connect at a human level.