Located in Battambang, Cambodia, Phare Ponleu Selpak is a colourful arts centre and circus that supports young talent to develop their skills. Visitors will have the chance to watch exciting performances and attend creative workshops, and many other cultural activities!
Introduction To Phare Ponleu Selpak
Phare Ponleu Selpak (PPS), which translates as “Brightness of the Arts”, is a truly remarkable non-profit arts education facility located in the province of Battambang. Launched in 1994 by young Cambodian artists and their teachers, many of whom lived in refugee camps, PPS was established with the aim of helping impoverished children overcome their experiences of trauma through the use of art, with free education as well as classes in visual arts, music, theater, dance, as well as circus.
Nowadays, PPS has evolved into a thriving arts hub, educating numerous students annually, as well as delivering entertaining live shows through its performance arm, Phare Circus. These shows feature acrobats, dancing, music, and drama, with many productions incorporating Cambodian folktales, histories, or issues, so a visit to their campus is always a rich cultural experience for travelers who appreciate arts, culture, and authenticity.
History Of Phare Ponleu Selpak
When the refugee camp ceased operations and individuals repatriated, nine out of the eleven previous pupils, along with Véronique, formed the core team of PPS in 1994 in Battambang, whose goal was to utilize art, education, and community support to aid vulnerable children and youth to restore and recover from trauma and hardship.
Since 1996, PPS has included music lessons, from 1998 a circus training program, and over the years added theatre, dance, visual arts, & academic education; thus creating a comprehensive artistic, educational, & support programme.
PPS now serves hundreds to thousands of children, youth & families of Battambang, offering free arts & academic training, support programmes, a public school, and a performing arts centre; along with the belief that “the brightness of the arts” can help heal individuals and bring back the heart and soul of Cambodian Cultural identity after years of war and civil strife
Top 4 Iconic Attractions In Phare Ponleu Selpak
Phare Ponleu Selpak (PPS) turns art into a powerful force in the community, so art is not only a show, but a cultural experience that matters. Phare Ponleu Selpak is a fusion of art, education, and social impact, so coming here is not only about getting to see great art but also about helping valuable young artists.
Big Top Circus Show
But without a doubt, one of the most enjoyable experiences of being in Watertown is taking in a show at the Phare “Big Top” circus. Skilled students from PPS use their talents in acrobatics, dancing, music, juggling, and drama, incorporating Cambodian history, folktales, or social issues into their performances that show the rich depth of their productions. There’s pure excitement in this one-hour show that includes spectacular aerial displays, drama, live music, and lighting that’s truly breathtaking. Indeed, every ticket purchased supports education for underprivileged youth.
Arts & Visual Gallery
Taking a stroll through the art studios and galleries at PPS will give you a glimpse into the contemporary arts scene in Cambodia. You will see paintings, drawings, sculptures, and designs produced by young artists who express their creativity through hope. There is also a boutique on-site, allowing you to take home some meaningful pieces that will give back to the artists.
Music, Dance, And Circus Workshops
However, if one wishes to move beyond observation and participate, there’s much that the PPS provides through their workshops in circus arts, traditional as well as contemporary music, dancing, painting, and other forms. Such workshops provide an insight into the skill sets of Cambodian artists. Such hands-on experience in Battambang helps one better appreciate the effort that goes into every performance.
Campus Tour – Learn the Story Behind the Art
Taking a guided tour of the PPS campus will give you a behind-the-scenes look as you visit rehearsal spaces, meet some students, and explore the purpose behind this organization’s establishment. You will learn more about the history of PPS, from its humble beginnings as a group that helped children overcome hardship and war through art, to its evolution as a cultural leader.
5 Unforgettable Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss
Phare Ponleu Selpak is more than an arts school, as it is a dynamic creativity, culture, or performance center. By visiting this place, you will be able to see the strength and creativity of Cambodia’s culture, as well as its performances, most of which come from the youth.
Watch The Phare Circus Performance
Phare Ponleu Selpak’s circus is globally renowned for its dynamic and moving shows. With acrobats, jugglers, clowns, and dancers who use traditional Cambodian tales alongside modern choreography, often expressing the stories of history, family, and hope, the performers of this troupe largely consist of students who have been extensively trained in their craft. By arriving early, you will be able to explore the space as well as the troupe’s preparation session backstage.
Explore The Visual Arts Studio
In Phare Ponleu Selpak, there are gifted artists from Cambodia, whose artwork is often inspired by their own experiences or represents social issues. You can explore the artwork studio, walking through the facility, so you can observe some of the artwork being produced, such as paintings, drawings, or sculptures. You can interact with the artists, as they might want to talk to you, explaining their artwork. There is the option of buying artwork as a souvenir.
Participate In A Music Or Dance Workshop
Workshops on music, dance, as well as exhibitions of Khmer instruments, music, and traditional Khmer dances, are also being conducted. Participants would be able to experience playing Khmer music with traditional instruments such as the ‘roneat,’ which is a form of xylophone.’
Others would be able to learn traditional Khmer dances. Workshops would be conducted under the guidance of experienced tutors who show a strong passion for Khmer performing arts. Taking part in this activity would allow participants to appreciate the hard work that goes into every single stage show.
Visit The Social And Educational Programs
Apart from its focus on the arts, Phare Ponleu Selpak also involves other programs that offer education and social services for disadvantaged children. You can gain knowledge of the different programs offered, such as education classes, training, and other community projects. This aspect gives valuable insight into the use of art as a form of empowerment. Getting involved with different projects, albeit temporarily, will give you a better sense of the effects that PPS has on the community.
Shop For Handmade Crafts And Souvenirs
There is a shop within the school where you can purchase crafts, jewelry, artwork, as well as textiles produced by the students. This is significantly valuable as every product represents the expertise developed within PPS. By buying this merchandise, you will be contributing directly to the students. Exploring this shop gives you a chance to see the details involved in the artwork, as well as the story behind every product. This is a perfect method of taking home pieces of Cambodian culture.
Entrance Fee
Seating at Phare Ponleu Selpak is available for every type of audience budget and taste. It offers a range of ticketing options, from standard to premium VIP seats. Tickets vary by seating category (e.g., standard or premium VIP). Price comparisons between all sections are available upon request.
Note: Children over the age of 12 are charged as adults; children between the ages of 0-11 will not be charged. All ticket prices are subject to change due to the current foreign exchange rate and/or seasonal changes in ticket sales.
|
Ticket Type
|
Price (USD)
|
|
|
Adult (age 12+)
|
Children (age 5-11)
|
|
|
Section A
|
38 USD
|
18 USD
|
|
Section B
|
28 USD
|
15 USD
|
|
Section C
|
18 USD
|
10 USD
|
Opening Hours
Phare Ponleu Selpak is open every day, with two major visiting phases: from 8:00 AM until 12:00 PM and from 2:00 PM until 8:30 PM. The ideal times for your visit would be during Phare’s evening shows, where you will see amazing performances from Phare’s circus called “Big Top” featuring amazing performances featuring live music, wonderful acrobatics, and spectacular lighting.
If you are interested in visiting workshops, galleries, or taking tours of the campus, then you will be able to visit the studios, boutiques, and exhibitions with no crowds if you come in the early morning hours. The peak tourist season in Battambang is between November and February, when the climate is cooler and drier, thus making it easier to explore the campus and partake in outdoor activities. Although you still have the chance to visit outside of these months, you can expect higher temperatures and occasional rain during this time.
How To Get To Phare Ponleu Selpak
Getting to Phare Ponleu Selpak in Battambang is relatively convenient, whether from within the city or from other nearby cities. To this destination, travelers may use tuk-tuks, taxis, as well as motorbikes, which provide a flexible means of transportation.
From the city center of Battambang: Taking a tuk-tuk ride will only take about 10–15 minutes, with a fare of $2-$5 USD. Motorcycles or bicycles are also a good option, giving you the flexibility of exploring the city along the way.
From Siem Reap or Phnom Penh: You can take a bus or private car to Battambang, which takes approximately 4-5 hours from Siem Reap, or 6-7 hours from Phnom Penh. Once in Cambodia, you can then use tuk-tuks or taxis that will take you directly to the campus of Phare Ponleu Selpak.
Things To Know Before Traveling To Phare Ponleu Selpak
Going to Phare Ponleu Selpak is a unique experience that brings together a global-quality circus show with Khmer culture. It’s essential that you plan ahead so that you can maximize your trip, taking in the lively culture that Battambang provides.
-
Make sure you arrive well before the show, preferably a minimum of 30 minutes prior, so that you can reserve your seat.
-
Phare Café & Phare Boutique are open 3 hours before the show. You will be able to enjoy some Cambodian street food as well as shop for some souvenirs.
-
Sections A or B provide the best views of the stage, although some seating in Section C may be partially obstructed by support columns.
-
Taking photos is permitted before the show as well as during intermission. However, taping the show is not allowed.
-
There’s free admission for children aged 0-11, but ages 12+ must pay adult rates.
-
You may want to bring some cash with you if, for example, you would like to buy some snacks, beverages, or souvenirs.
-
Check the schedule of performances in advance, esp. during holidays or festival seasons, so as not to watch a sold-out show.
FAQs About Phare Ponleu Selpak
Before visiting Phare Ponleu Selpak, many tourists wished to learn more about their performance, ticketing, as well as their expectations while on site. Below are several of the most commonly asked questions to help facilitate a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.
-
How early should I arrive before the show?
It’s recommended to arrive at least 60-90 minutes before showtime. Phare Café and Phare Boutique open three hours prior, so you will have adequate time to have a meal and/or browse local artisan crafts. Guests can begin seating in the Big Top 30 minutes before the start of the show, and no one will be admitted to the show once it has started.
-
Are the shows suitable for children?
Most shows are family-friendly, providing entertainment for families throughout their lives. Children love the combination of acrobatic tricks, musical performances, and story lines. Children up to 11 years old can attend free of charge; children aged 12 or older are required to pay full price for adult tickets.
-
How long does a typical show last?
A typical circus performance hosted by Phare Ponleu Selpak would be approximately one hour long. The show is a fast-paced, continuous performance filled with high energy, humour, and drama, highlighted with impressive physical talent. Most audience members report that the show passes very quickly because it is a very entertaining event.
Final Thoughts: Is Phare Ponleu Selpak Worth Visiting?
When you visit Phare Ponleu Selpak in Battambang, it’s a chance for you to experience culture uniquely through creativity and storytelling while supporting young artists. Whether it’s through captivating circus performances or getting right up close to local arts and workshops, when you visit, you help support talented young people in their pursuit of artistry. Make sure to include seeing Phare Ponleu Selpak as part of your Cambodia visit, and remember to book your visit with Seni World.
Content Seniworld
Subscribe
Login
0 Comments
Oldest
Related articles
Battambang Travel Guide
