Take a VIRTUAL
Dance Lesson!

Here's an opportunity to take an introductory Coconut Dance lesson from expert teacher Samnang Hor. See what it's like to be in an actual class!

Simply click on the video below, and get ready to learn some basic steps of the Coconut Dance, just as if you were in the class, one on one!

Want to find out more?

Go to our programs to learn about the different levels of classes we offer, the times and the places.

Scenes from the Coconut Shell Dance

The Coconut Shell Dance is a Khmer folk dance. It is one of the most popular and well-known of the Cambodian folk dances and embodies and displays the well-being, friendship, and prosperity of the Cambodian people.

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The Khmer Coconut Dance is one of the many Khmer dances taught by Master Teachers at the Angkor Dance Troupe. Check out our current programs to see how you can participate in one of our activities.

View a Performance of the Coconut Shell Dance

Learn How You Can Book a Performance . . .

The Angkor Dance Troupe regularly performs classical and folk dances throughout the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and surrounding states for organizations and educational institutions. Learn more about how you can arrange to have us perform especially for you!

Background of the Coconut Shell Dance

Climate warm, near the equator, no winter – Cambodia has two seasons, dry season and the rainy season. You see coconut trees throughout Cambodia. After the meat of the coconut is carved out, Cambodian people often save the shells, polishing them and using them for decoration in their homes.

The dance grew out of a popular game that used coconut shells. The game was played during all kinds of ceremonies, but most often during weddings, engagements, and when the groom is escorted in a procession to the bride’s house. The Coconut Shell Dance is one of the most popular and well-known of the Cambodian folk dances. In its original form, it was a one-man show. In the modern-day dance, an equal number of male and female dancers perform the dance, signifying friendship and courtship.

Costumes

The beauty and exquisite appearance of each dancer in the Coconut Dance is preceded by an elaborate preparation time where each dancer prepares not only physically but mentally for the role they will perform. Take a sneak peak backstage to view how master teachers prepare performers to dance the Coconut Dance.

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Learn more about the costuming through the many programs we offer to youth.