Private Performance at Sompao Meas Hall

The Blessing Dance is typically performed at weddings to bless the newlyweds on their new chapter.

Khmer New Year Dinner at UMass Lowell Inn & Conference Center

For this special occasion to celebrate year of the Rabbit, the Blessing dance was performed by our Master Teachers of Classical Dance: Neakru Pech Heung, Neakru Sophea Nop, and Neakru Gima Mean.

Photos by Sue Kim and Bora Chiemroun.

Honoring National Heritage Fellow, Yary Livan

LOWELL, MA — On April 1st, 2023 the National Council for the Traditional Arts partnered with Lowell National Historic Park, the Angkor Dance Troupe, and the Mass Cultural Council for a spectacular #NationalTreasures event, presenting Master ceramist and National Heritage Fellow Yary Livan.

The event showcased Yary’s work, a rare and beautiful display from this master Cambodian ceramicist, who has been sculpting and teaching in the United States for over two decades. As part of a larger celebration honoring Cambodian Heritage Month, the evening featured performances by the Angkor Dance Troupe and the Wong Pleng Khmer Band, along with Yary, are considered beloved representatives of Lowell’s thriving Cambodian community.

Photos by Remsberg, Inc.