Sovanna Phum

Who we are

Reviving, preserving and promoting a golden era of arts

Sovanna Phum (meaning Golden Era) is an independent and self-financed Khmer association working at the forefront of performing arts in Cambodia. First established in 1994, we offer real opportunities for Cambodian artists to make a living through their art by organising performances, as well as nurturing, preserving and promoting the treasures of Cambodian culture through various projects.

What we do

Cambodia has a long and rich tradition of performing arts, which involves folk and classical dance, mask theatre, music, theatre, shadow puppetry and circus. After a long time of war and depression that almost decimated the arts in Cambodia, the performing art scene is finally going through a revival.

Today, Sovanna Phum has a dynamic network of 120 energetic professional artists, mainly graduates from The Royal University of Fine Arts in Phnom Penh. Since the renovation of the open air stage in 2002, we offer a theatre space that allows not only Cambodian people to re-discover their culture but also for foreigners to discover the rich diversity of Cambodian performing arts. We are also active in promoting intercultural exchanges by collaborating with artists from other countries.

Since 1997, we have been designing, implementing and performing information and awareness programs, prevention and educational performances on specific subjects such as health, education, environment, human rights and democracy.

What you can experience

• Experience a unique performance at our Theatre every Friday and Saturday night at 7.30pm. Performances include shadow puppet theatre, classical Apsara dancing, folklore and mask dance, theatre, traditional music, circus as well as new creations.
• We sell small and large leather shadow puppets, musical instruments, masks etc. in our puppet shop and gallery at the Theatre. Open from Monday to Thursday 8am-6pm, and Friday and Saturday from 8am-9pm (closed Sundays).
• Special performances can be arranged for parties, conferences, birthdays or tour groups.
• In addition to the weekly performances, we offer a variety of dance, drum, and circus workshops every week. Private lessons on the ancient art of making leather shadow puppets are offered on request.
• Our musicians group, Krom Skor, regularly performs at the Theatre. Their compilation of drum music explores new ideas in Cambodian music while staying in touch with tradition.
• Contact us or your hotel, guesthouse or tour operator for more information. Check the daily newspaper or our web site for more performance information.

For further information on our activities and how to help us, please contact us at:

#166 Street 99, Phsar Doeum Thkov Commune, Chamkar Mon District,
Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Telephone: (023) 987 564
Email: [email protected]

Sourced: Stay Another Day