Resilience Through Dance and Song - Stay Curious, Utah!
The art form of classical Cambodian dance was nearly abolished by the Khmer Rouge during the 1970s, and many Cambodians immigrated to the United States. Join Khemera Dance Troupe Director Chanda Chuon to learn about the troupe’s work to revive and preserve the dances, music, and clothing of their cultural heritage. For K-2nd grades, hear a Museum educator read The Cambodian Dancer: Sophany’s Gift of Hope by Daryn Reicherter followed by a short Q&A. For 3rd-6th and 6th-12th graders, join us for live question and answer sessions with Chanda Chuon.
Interested in learning more about the Khemera Dance Troupe? Visit their website.
Recorded Q&A with Khemera Dance Troupe Director Chanda Chuon - December 8, 2022
Chanda Chuon has been teaching Cambodian classical dance since 2000. During the early years, he found himself networking with dance masters around the world to learn this delicate artform, including the craft of making the costumes and dressing performers. He plays an active role with his surrounding communities. He currently serves as the Director of Cultural Affairs for the Utah Cambodian Community Buddhist Temple and on the Board of Directors for the Asian Association of Utah. He is a former co-chair for the annual Utah Asian Festival. He has also volunteered as the Stage Manager for the Utah Pride festival for a number of consecutive years and the Volunteer Operations Lead for Project Homeless Connect SLC in 2018. In 2008, he also served as a member of the Utah Governor's Office of Ethnic Affairs.