Skip to content 
Phare Cambodian Circus Will Leave You Breathless
I was amazed as an acrobat flew through the air. The crowd was silent, watching the mix of Khmer arts and circus tricks. Phare, The Cambodian Circus, is a big hit in Siem Reap.
The show took me to a world where Cambodian culture shone. The performers, once at-risk youth, showed off their skills in amazing ways. They used music and colorful costumes to tell stories of Cambodia.
What really hit me was Phare’s impact. It’s not just a show; it’s a way to help the community. Buying tickets helps support local projects, making every visitor part of something special.
Key Takeaways
- Phare Circus blends traditional Khmer arts with modern circus techniques
- The show is Siem Reap’s top non-temple attraction
- Performances feature contortion, juggling, acrobatics, and aerial arts
- Ticket sales support community initiatives and youth empowerment
- The circus showcases Cambodian culture and heritage through storytelling
- Many performers come from disadvantaged backgrounds
The Origins and Mission of Phare Circus
Phare Circus has a special history. It started in 1986 to help kids deal with war trauma. In 1994, young men in Cambodia created the Phare Ponleu Selpak NGO school. It offers free education and arts training to kids who need it most.
From NGO Initiative to Cultural Icon
Phare Circus has become a big deal. They had their first outdoor show in Siem Reap in February 2013. Over 100,000 people have seen their shows since then. Now, it’s a leading social enterprise in Cambodia.
Empowering Disadvantaged Youth Through Arts
The circus helps kids a lot. Phare Ponleu Selpak has a school, kindergarten, and teaches art. They train over 1,200 kids and 500 adults in art.
Building Community Through Performance
Phare Circus brings people together. Almost 75% of ticket sales help Phare Ponleu Selpak. They work with companies and tour in Europe, Asia, and the USA.
| Aspect | Impact |
|---|---|
| Ticket Sales Support | Free education, arts training, social programs |
| Beneficiaries | 1,200+ pupils, 500+ vocational trainees |
| Profit to Phare Ponleu Selpak | 75% of circus earnings |
| International Reach | Tours in Europe, Asia, USA |
Behind the Spectacle: More Than Just a Show
Phare: The Cambodian Circus is a true gem in Siem Reap’s cultural scene. It started in 1986 and has grown a lot. It’s now a place of social development, education, and art.
In 2013, Phare showed its first outdoor show in Siem Reap. Now, it’s the city’s top attraction, after Angkor Wat. Each show is a colorful mix of Cambodian culture and modern art.
Phare does more than just shows. It’s part of Phare Ponleu Selpak, which teaches arts and performing. This helps young people find a better future through art.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Show Structure | Six acts |
| Show Time | 8 PM |
| Boutique & Cafe Opening | 6 PM |
| Transportation Options | Tuk-tuk, Taxi, Bicycle, Walking |
The circus has a big impact on society. It’s not just fun; it’s about helping people and building communities. Phare is creating a new generation of Cambodian artists and leaders.
You can learn more about Phare, The Cambodian Circus, and book tickets directly by visiting Phare Circus Official Website. It’s your gateway to an unforgettable cultural experience in Siem Reap!
Phare, The Cambodian Circus: A Cultural Renaissance
I’ve seen the magic of Phare, The Cambodian Circus. It’s truly amazing. This show mixes cambodian heritage with modern art, offering a unique experience.
Blending Traditional Khmer Arts
The circus beautifully combines traditional Khmer arts. I was impressed by the use of cambodian heritage in costumes and dance. It’s a great way to honor the country’s culture.
Modern Interpretations of Ancient Stories
Phare makes old khmer stories new again. The performers tell these tales in exciting ways. Even without understanding the language, the stories are powerful.
Live Music and Artistic Expression
Live traditional music adds to the show. The music fits perfectly with the action on stage. It shows the importance of artistic expression in every performance.
- Shows last 60-90 minutes
- Performances primarily in Khmer
- Visual storytelling transcends language barriers
Phare started in 2013. It has grown from an empty tent to a full house every night. It’s more than just a show; it’s a cultural rebirth for Cambodia.
To explore the Siem Reap City Tour, check out the detailed itinerary and book your experience directly on this page: Siem Reap City Tour – Journey Cambodia. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the history and culture of this vibrant city!
Breathtaking Acts and Performances
I’ve seen the magic of Phare Cambodian Circus, and it’s amazing. This show lasts an hour. It mixes acrobatics, theater, and dance in a way that’s both stunning and creative.
Acrobatic Mastery
The show’s heart is its incredible acrobatics. I was amazed by the human pyramids and jugglers. They flipped and tumbled in ways that seemed impossible.
Contortion and Balance
The contortionists at Phare are truly amazing. They bend and twist in ways that are hard to imagine. Their strength and flexibility show the hard work they put in.
Aerial Arts and Choreography
The aerial acts add a new level to the show. Silk performers and trapeze artists move gracefully above us. Their dance is both on the ground and in the air.
| Performance Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Acrobatics | Human pyramids, flips, tumbles |
| Contortion | Extreme flexibility, balance acts |
| Aerial Arts | Silk performances, trapeze acts |
| Additional Skills | Juggling, fire dancing |
Every act at Phare fits together perfectly, telling a story. It mixes old Cambodian arts with new circus tricks. It’s more than just a show; it’s a cultural journey that shows the talent and strength of these young artists.
The Venue and Visitor Experience
The Phare Circus venue in Siem Reap is a top attraction. It’s an intimate setting that puts you in the action. This makes for an unforgettable experience.
When I walked into the big top, I felt the cozy atmosphere. The circular seats give everyone a great view. It’s perfect for families of all ages.
The show starts at 8:00 pm and lasts an hour. After, you can meet the performers and take photos. It’s a chance to get close to these talented artists.
Ticket prices vary from $18 to $38 for adults and $10 to $18 for kids. Booking early is wise to get the best seats.
- Showtime: 8:00 pm
- Duration: 1 hour
- Adult tickets: $18 – $38
- Child tickets: $10 – $18
Don’t miss the Phare Boutique before or after the show. You can buy unique souvenirs here. 100% of sales go to the artists, supporting the local community.
Training and Education Programs
Phare Circus is more than just shows. It’s a place for learning and growing. I’ve seen how it changes lives through its training.
Professional Artist Development
The circus really cares about its artists. Every year, over 1,000 students join the Phare Ponleu Selpak school in Battambang. This effort pays off, with many graduates finding jobs or touring the world.
Youth Outreach Initiatives
Phare Circus does more than just entertain. It helps young people through its outreach programs. Every day, over 1,200 kids go to school, and 500 more get a chance to learn through arts.
Workshop Opportunities for Visitors
Ever wanted to see how circus magic is made? Phare offers workshops for $15 per person. For groups of five or more, it’s a workshop and show package. It’s a fun way to learn circus skills.
| Program | Participants | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Arts School Enrollment | 1,000+ annually | Career opportunities in performing arts |
| Public School | 1,200+ daily | Access to quality education |
| Alternative Schools | 500 daily | Specialized arts education |
| Visitor Workshops | Groups of 5+ | Cultural exchange and awareness |
These programs are more than fun. They’re changing lives. The circus gives back almost 75% of its profits to support education. This creates a cycle of learning and opportunity.
Impact on Local Tourism and Community
I’ve seen how Phare Circus helps local tourism and strengthens the community in Siem Reap. It’s more than just a show; it’s a force for good.
Economic Benefits
The circus creates jobs and boosts the economy. Ticket sales help fund homes, training, and health for artists and their families. Local artisans also get a boost, making items sold in the Phare Boutique.
Cultural Preservation
Phare keeps Cambodian culture alive with its shows. It mixes traditional arts with circus, showing off Khmer heritage. This draws tourists and sparks interest in local traditions.
Social Development
Phare’s impact goes beyond the circus. It offers free education and support to about 1,200 at-risk youth every day. It also helps women from floating villages earn money by making eco-friendly products.
| Impact Area | Key Achievements |
|---|---|
| Economic | 50% of school budget covered, 100% of circus expenses met |
| Cultural | Top-rated attraction on TripAdvisor, Lonely Planet Top Choice |
| Social | 1,200 youth supported daily, partnerships with local initiatives |
Phare Circus shows that local tourism can support the community, preserve culture, and bring economic benefits. It’s a great example of responsible tourism.
Planning Your Visit to Phare Circus
I’m excited to share how you can experience the unique entertainment of Phare Circus in Siem Reap. This family-friendly attraction offers nightly performances at 8:00 PM. Pre-show activities start at 5:30 PM. The must-see performances last about an hour, blending acrobatics, dance, and storytelling.
Booking tickets in advance is a smart move, as shows often sell out. Here’s a breakdown of the seating options:
| Section | Adult Price | Child Price (5-11) | Seating Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | $38 | $18 | Reserved, front three rows |
| B | $28 | $15 | Open, rear three rows |
| C | $18 | $10 | Open, side sections |
Getting to the venue is easy. A tuk-tuk ride from most Siem Reap locations costs $3-$5 each way. For a complete evening, consider dining at Phare Cafe before or after the show. They offer special menus, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.
By attending Phare Circus, you’re not just enjoying a spectacular show. You’re supporting a social enterprise that provides jobs and education to disadvantaged Cambodian youth. It’s entertainment with a heart, making your visit truly meaningful.
Conclusion
I’ve been amazed by Phare, The Cambodian Circus. It’s a special show that highlights Cambodian culture. For over 20 years, it has made a big difference and kept traditions alive.
The circus mixes traditional Khmer arts with circus tricks. Tickets start at $18, making it easy to support a good cause. The stories told through acrobatics, dance, and music are based on real lives.
Phare is more than a show; it’s a place that helps kids. It gives jobs and education to those in need. By going, you help create chances and keep Cambodian culture alive.
Phare is not just a show; it’s a whole experience in Siem Reap. It’s a chance to see Cambodia’s cultural rebirth. Don’t miss this amazing, inspiring show when you visit Cambodia.
