Princess Buppha Devi Dance School

Imagine an evening where you sit in a cozy, air-conditioned studio on Koh Pich, watching a group of talented dancers bring ancient stories to life through elegant movements and traditional music. That’s exactly what you get with the Princess Buppha Devi Dance School’s weekly performance, held every Sunday at Treellion Park. For just $25 per person, you can enjoy a one-hour classical dance show that highlights Cambodia’s royal ballet and storytelling traditions. The experience is about more than just entertainment — it’s a chance to connect with Cambodian culture in an authentic, intimate setting.

Two things stand out immediately. First, the small, intimate venue with a maximum of 35 seats means you’re close enough to see every intricate hand gesture and facial expression. Second, the show’s focus on preserving traditional artistry adds a meaningful layer of cultural significance. What we particularly appreciated was the opportunity to see experienced dancers perform and even take photos afterward, giving you the chance to remember this special evening up close.

As for considerations, it’s worth noting that the experience doesn’t include transportation or food, so you’ll need to plan for that separately. Also, performances might vary from week to week, so if you’re hoping to see a specific story like “The Abduction of Sita,” it’s good to check availability. This show is best suited for travelers who love cultural experiences and want to support local arts, especially those curious about Cambodia’s rich tradition of classical dance.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Witness traditional Cambodian dance performed by skilled dancers.
• Support for Preservation: Your ticket helps keep this cultural art form alive and funds free dance classes for children.
• Intimate Setting: Small, air-conditioned studio with close-up views of the dancers.
• Family Friendly: Kids under 10 attend free, making it a good outing for families.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve online, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
• Location: Conveniently situated behind a dinosaur statue in Treellion Park on Koh Pich.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Look at Cambodia’s Classical Dance

The Princess Buppha Devi Dance School offers a rare glimpse into the elegant art of Cambodian classical dance, a tradition with roots stretching back centuries. What makes this experience unique is that it’s not just a staged performance for travelers — it’s a living tradition supported by a school dedicated to keeping this art form alive. By attending, you’re not just watching a show; you’re actively participating in cultural preservation.

The weekly performances are hosted at Treellion Park, specifically in Studio B6, behind the dinosaur statue. The venue’s size — max 35 seats — ensures you’re close enough to see the grace and detail in each dancer’s movements. The show runs every Sunday from 7:00 to 8:00 PM, a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing or exploring Phnom Penh. To get there, you simply need to locate the park and arrive a few minutes early — the ticketing process is straightforward, with cash at the door.

What to Expect During the Performance

The show typically features a story from Cambodian mythology or history, like the famous “Abduction of Sita” from the Ramayana. You’ll see dancers dressed in stunning traditional costumes, with intricate headpieces, flowing silk garments, and jewelry that reflect royal court attire. Accompanying the dance is traditional music, played live, which heightens the storytelling and emotional impact.

The performance lasts an hour, during which the dancers bring to life stories through movements that combine storytelling, symbolism, and precision. We loved the way the dancers’ facial expressions and gestures communicated complex narratives, making it accessible even if you’re not familiar with Cambodian mythology. The show is quite intimate, with the dancers performing close to the audience, allowing for a more personal experience.

Why We Loved This Experience

One highlight is the close-up performance by skilled dancers, which makes it easier to appreciate their technical skill and artistry. The ability to take photos with the dancers afterward offers a memorable souvenir, adding a personal touch that’s rare at larger, more commercial shows. Plus, seeing the fusion of classical dance and traditional Bokator fighting techniques in a new creation was unexpected and fascinating, giving a fresh perspective on Cambodia’s diverse cultural expressions.

What Could Be Better?

As with any cultural show, the storyline and performance may vary, so if you’re seeking a specific narrative, it’s worth confirming what will be performed. Since transportation isn’t included, you’ll need to plan how to get to Treellion Park, especially if you’re staying outside the city center. Also, while the small size is a plus for intimacy, it could mean limited availability during peak tourist seasons.

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Why This Tour Is Perfect for You

This experience is ideal if you’re interested in authentic Cambodian culture and enjoy arts that tell stories through movement and music. It’s also a good choice for families with children since kids under 10 attend free, and the setting is informal. Those who value supporting local arts and education will appreciate that the proceeds help provide free dance classes for young children.

The Full Breakdown

Itinerary and Location

The performance takes place at Treellion Park, Studio B6, behind the dinosaur statue on Koh Pich. The show starts promptly at 7:00 PM and lasts for one hour, ending back at the original meeting point. There’s no formal tour guide; however, the process of attending is straightforward, and the venue is easy to find with a little preparation.

How It Fits into Your Travel Plan

This isn’t a full-day tour but rather a relaxed cultural highlight to include in your evening plans. You can combine it with a walk through the park during daylight or dinner afterward at nearby restaurants. Because it’s only an hour long, it’s perfect for travelers with busy itineraries who want a quality cultural experience without taking up too much time.

Ticketing and Pricing

At $25, the ticket is a reasonable investment for a quality cultural show. Remember, kids under 10 are free, and you can reserve your spot on the Last2tickets platform and choose to pay later, offering flexibility. It’s also wise to check availability beforehand, as the performance runs every Sunday but might sell out during busy periods.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The studio is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs. Since transportation isn’t included, plan to arrive by tuk-tuk or taxi, which are readily available in Phnom Penh. The local setting is safe and friendly, though you will need to make your own arrangements to get there.

Supporting Local Culture

Perhaps the most meaningful aspect is that the dance school is free to the public and dedicated to preserving Cambodia’s traditional arts. By attending, you’re directly contributing to this effort. The performance isn’t commercialized or overly touristy — it’s a genuine showcase meant to keep this art form alive for future generations.

Final Thoughts

The Princess Buppha Devi Dance School offers a chance to enjoy a beautifully orchestrated glimpse into Cambodia’s royal dance tradition. Its small size, talented performers, and cultural significance make it a worthwhile experience for travelers seeking authentic arts and supporting local initiatives.

Whether you’re a cultural enthusiast, a family traveling with kids, or someone interested in storytelling through movement, this performance provides a memorable way to connect with Cambodia beyond typical sightseeing. The modest price, intimate setting, and ongoing support for dance education make it a valuable addition to your Phnom Penh itinerary.

FAQs

Is the dance show suitable for children?
Yes, kids under 10 get in for free, and the show’s storytelling and vibrant costumes tend to captivate younger audiences.

How long is the performance?
The show lasts exactly one hour, from 7:00 to 8:00 PM.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
You can reserve tickets online through the Last2tickets platform, which offers the flexibility to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Where exactly is the performance held?
It’s in Treellion Park, Studio B6, behind the dinosaur statue on Koh Pich. The easiest way is to look for the park and follow signs or ask locals.

Are there options for private shows?
Yes, the school offers private performances upon request, which could be perfect for special events or groups.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation, food, and drinks are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way there.

Is the venue accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the studio is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all visitors.

What should I wear?
Casual attire is fine, but since it’s a cultural performance, you might enjoy dressing a little smarter — though comfort is key.

This performance combines artistry, tradition, and support for Cambodian culture into a compact, meaningful experience. If you’re in Phnom Penh on a Sunday evening and want to see something authentic, this show is well worth your time.

You can check availability for your dates here: