Modern Apsara Company
Bridging the modern world to the sacred art of Cambodian classical dance
Showcasing Ancient Cambodia in Modern Day
Founded in 2022 by a Cambodian American second-generation dancer, Mea Lath, the Modern Apsara Company is the premier Cambodian performing arts company based in Long Beach, California dedicated to connecting the modern world to the magic of Cambodian classical dance. From performances, training, and workshops, we approach each occasion as a unique opportunity to showcase the beauty and resiliency of Cambodian art and traditions.
Apsara
“Apsara, meaning ‘born on water’ are celestial nymphs and represent Cambodian art and culture in its fullest form.
There are nearly 1,800 Apsara sculptures carved in Angkor Wat. The apsaras according to legend were born from the Churning of the Milk Sea the Hindu version of creation and are said to be the wives of divine musicians. While another legend tells of the union between an old hermit named Kampu and an Apsara by the name of Mera, who is dressed in white representing purity help founded the kingdom of Kampu-Mera or Kampuchea (Cambodia).
Like the ethereal spirits they represent, Apsara dancers move ever so slowly yet gracefully, resembling heavenly goddesses floating amongst the clouds.”
Cambodian Classical Dance
Cambodian classical dance or royal court dance is an artform that is over 1,000 years old, developed as a prayer in movement. Dancers were believed to be the bridge or messenger between the gods and the kings. Before the 1900s, dances were only seen during prayer ceremonies or in the King’s presence. After the Khmer Rouge Genocide from 1975-1979, the art was nearly destroyed as 10% of artists survived. It is so important that we carry on these traditions and continue to share our art with the community. After the genocide, the remaining artists devoted their lives to reviving the arts and the schools of fine arts. Among the first graduating class of the Royal University of Fine Arts were master dancers and choreographers, Sophiline Cheam Shapiro and Charya Burt. They went on to train and nurture young Cambodian-Americans. Inspired by her teachers and the past masters, Mea Lath, pays homage by continuing their work and dedicating her life to planting and nurturing new seeds of the next generation of artists. "Dance is the soul of the Khmer people; it is the symbol of their life."
- Princess Norodom Buppha Devi
Book a Consultation
To book a performance or workshop, please schedule a consultation meeting.
Your kind contribution to the Modern Apsara Company helps to ensure that our POC woman-owned small business can continue to operate while offering affordable tuition prices to those who seek to connect with their cultural heritage through performing arts.
Please note that we are not a nonprofit but rather a new venture doing business for a social cause.