Khmer Dance Classes
This Fall 2026, Khmer Maine proudly presents its Khmer Traditional Dance Program, a seven-week Arts and Cultural initiative held every Sunday from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the dance studio at the University of Maine. Designed for youth ages 7–18, the program provides a meaningful opportunity to engage with one of Cambodia's most treasured artistic traditions while strengthening cultural identity and community connection. Khmer traditional and folk dances are a living expression of Cambodian history, values, and storytelling, and through weekly instruction, students will learn dance techniques, cultural etiquette, and performance skills in a welcoming environment that celebrates creativity, belonging, and pride in their heritage.
This season, Khmer Maine is excited to introduce Robam Oba Trop Chong Rai (Sweeping Away Sorrow) as the featured dance for the fall session. Through learning this graceful Khmer folk dance, students will deepen their appreciation for Cambodian artistry while developing discipline, confidence, teamwork, leadership, and artistic expression. Beyond mastering choreography, participants will gain valuable performance experience and strengthen life skills that support their personal growth both inside and outside the dance studio. The program encourages youth to build meaningful relationships with peers, learn from instructors and community mentors, and become active ambassadors of Cambodian culture within Maine's diverse communities.
More than a dance class, the Khmer Traditional Dance Program is a holistic youth development initiative that integrates cultural preservation with social and emotional well-being. Each three-hour session includes a dedicated 30-minute Girl Well-Being Activities component followed by the Girl Circle Curriculum, providing participants with opportunities to strengthen self-awareness, confidence, resilience, and healthy relationships through guided discussions, reflective activities, and opening and closing rituals. By combining traditional arts education with intentional well-being practices, Khmer Maine continues to create a safe, inclusive, and empowering space where young people feel supported by their community, connected to their cultural heritage, and inspired to express themselves both artistically and personally.
Orientation (Required for Students and Parents)
Weekly Class Structure
10:00 – 10:30 AM: Support & Well-Being
All youths gather for structured activities focused on the well-being of girls and young women. This session provides a safe and supportive space to discuss challenges such as self-doubt, loneliness, academic pressure, social expectations, and personal issues. Through guided support, participants learn strategies to build resilience and confidence.10:30 – 11:00 AM: Costume Preparation
Students receive instruction on the proper way to dress in traditional Khmer dance attire, learning the cultural and symbolic significance of the costumes.11:00 – 12:00 PM: Dance Instruction (Ages 13–18)
Older students review previously learned dances and continue Bong Soung’s remaining choreography until completing the dance12:00 – 12:50 PM: Dance Instruction (Ages 7–12)
Younger students review prior dances and begin learning new ones, developing creativity, discipline, and teamwork in a supportive environment.12:50 – 1:00 PM: Community Responsibility
All students participate in cleaning and organizing the facility, reinforcing values of responsibility, cooperation, and respect for shared spaces.
