Phare Ponleu Selpak<\/a>, a school that uses art to educate and heal children affected by war and poverty. Through stunning acrobatics, dance, live painting, and music, the show takes you on a journey through Cambodia’s recent history, from the peaceful pre-war era to the devastation of the Khmer Rouge and the country’s gradual reconstruction.<\/p>\nSokha’s story is one of personal struggle and ultimate triumph<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/pharecircus.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/PhareCambodianCircus_Sokha_6.jpg” alt=”Phare Circus show %22Sokha%22: female artist having a nightmare while taunted by ghosts of the war” title_text=”Phare Circus show %22Sokha%22″ show_in_lightbox=”on” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” box_shadow_style=”preset2″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/pharecircus.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/04\/Sokha-Show.jpg” alt=”Phare Circus live show %22Sokha%22 acrobalance performed in front of live paintings” title_text=”Phare Circus live show %22Sokha%22 acrobalance” show_in_lightbox=”on” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” box_shadow_style=”preset2″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Unraveling the Cambodian Symbolism in “Sokha”<\/h2>\n
“Sokha” is more than just a performance; it’s a poignant exploration of Cambodia’s recent history, infused with rich symbolism that adds depth to the narrative. Let’s unravel the captivating Cambodian symbols that make “Sokha” an emotional rollercoaster ride:<\/p>\n
Symbolism of Boxes: Building and Rebuilding<\/h3>\n
Throughout the show, you\u2019ll notice the creative use of boxes. At first, they\u2019re carefully arranged to depict the serene Angkor Wat during Cambodia\u2019s peaceful times. Later, they transform into desks for vibrant students who eventually seek refuge under them in times of terror. As these boxes tumble from great heights, they symbolize the crumbling building blocks of cities. These boxes represent the enduring burdens that people carry due to chaos. In the end, they take on a new shape, signifying independence and the path towards a peaceful and abundant Cambodia.<\/p>\n
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Live Painting: A Canvas of Emotions<\/h3>\n
There is deep Cambodian symbolism in the live painting during the performance. The show kicks off with a traditional Buddha statue, evoking memories of a peaceful, religious, and thriving Cambodia. But then, the canvas transforms into a depiction of bombs exploding, portraying the devastation and despair of the Cambodian people during those dark times. The red handprints on the canvas reflect the desperation and sadness of those yearning to escape the Khmer Rouge\u2019s grasp. The destruction of religious freedom is vividly portrayed as the original Buddha is covered in black paint. What\u2019s revealed is a chaotic scene, turned upside down to reveal a skull. It\u2019s a stark reminder that the regime led only to death for millions of people.<\/p>\n
Social Evolution through Painting<\/h3>\n
The final painting tells a vivid story of societal evolution and reconstruction. As Sokha returns to Cambodia after being a refugee, it\u2019s the 80s and early 90s, a time when the country, after the Vietnamese occupation, starts to rebuild. The countryside is depicted as a peaceful and generous place where people can thrive through their hard work. Time marches on as the painter transforms the canvas with roads, lights, and buildings, illustrating the country\u2019s gradual resurgence.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/pharecircus.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/PhareCambodianCircus_Sokha_8.jpg” alt=”Phare Circus show %22Sokha%22: visual artist live painting the destruction of a Buddha , war destroying art” title_text=”Phare Circus show %22Sokha%22″ show_in_lightbox=”on” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” box_shadow_style=”preset2″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/pharecircus.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/5d3_opt-1-1.jpg” alt=”Phare Circus visual artist Robit Pen doing live painting in %22Sokha%22 performance” title_text=”Phare Circus visual artist Robit Pen doing live painting in %22Sokha%22 performance” show_in_lightbox=”on” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” box_shadow_style=”preset2″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_5,2_5″ _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Masks: Unmasking the Past<\/h3>\n
The use of masks to portray the Khmer Rouge creates haunting and disturbing characters. However, there\u2019s depth beyond the fear factor. The masks symbolize the transformation of ordinary people into monstrous roles during that period. They represent the dual nature of these individuals, showing how they embraced a dark side when they took on their roles. Some even remove their masks, revealing their vulnerability and the inner turmoil they endured. It\u2019s a reminder that even the perpetrators were victims themselves.<\/p>\n
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\u201cThere is one part in the show where an executioner is feeling powerful by executing others. Suddenly, when he\u2019s done, he looks back and he\u2019s scared \u2013 he takes off his mask. It\u2019s the symbolism of who you are behind that role you had during the war. The executioners were also victims at the same time.\u201d<\/p>\n
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There is also a \u2018rola bola\u2019 scene in the Khmer Rouge period, which is very symbolic. \u201cIt shows how they tried to build a country and society which was very unstable. They are not building on solid foundations and so it was a disaster.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/pharecircus.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/Sokha-2-1.jpg” alt=”Sokha artists wearing masks that only partially cover their faces, symbolic of living dual lives” title_text=”Sokha 2″ _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/pharecircus.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Sokha-by-Phare-Circus-rola-bola-symbolizes-unstable-society.webp” alt=”Sokha by Phare Circus – rola bola symbolizes unstable society” title_text=”Sokha by Phare Circus – rola bola symbolizes unstable society” show_in_lightbox=”on” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” box_shadow_style=”preset2″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Art Therapy Through Live Performances<\/h3>\n
One of the most touching moments in the show involves a juggling act. A traumatized young student struggles with black juggling balls, representing his burdens, until Sokha replaces them with vibrant orange ones, symbolizing the power of art to transform negativity into hope.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/pharecircus.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Phare-Circus-Sokha-artist-uses-juggling-as-art-therapy.webp” alt=”Phare Circus – Sokha artist uses juggling as art therapy” title_text=”Phare Circus – Sokha artist uses juggling as art therapy” show_in_lightbox=”on” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” box_shadow_style=”preset2″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/pharecircus.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Phare-Circus-teacher-helping-student-use-juggling-as-art-therapy.webp” alt=”Phare Circus – teacher Sokha using juggling to help student healing through art” title_text=”Phare Circus – teacher helping student use juggling as art therapy” show_in_lightbox=”on” _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” box_shadow_style=”preset2″ global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.24.2″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Sokha’s Return: A Message of Healing Through Art<\/h2>\n
As Sokha returns to Cambodia as a thriving refugee, the show’s core message comes to light \u2013 the healing power of art. Through her teaching, Sokha becomes a beacon of hope, transforming the lives of countless Cambodian children and helping them confront their inner demons.<\/p>\n
“Sokha” at the Phare Circus is not just a show; it’s a journey through history, emotions, and the incredible resilience of the human spirit. If your travels take you to Cambodia, seize the opportunity to witness the profound Cambodian symbolism in “Sokha” \u2013 an immersive experience that transcends entertainment and leaves a lasting impact on your heart and soul.<\/p>\n
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