Royal Ballet of Cambodia

Royal Ballet of Cambodia
របាំព្រះរាជទ្រព្យ
Cambodia Royal Ballet
MediumDance
Originating cultureKhmer
Royal Ballet of Cambodia
CountryCambodia
Reference00060
RegionAsia and the Pacific
Inscription history
Inscription2008 (3rd session)
ListRepresentative

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.

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. It has been inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists since 2003.