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Program Director

Chummeng Soun, My journey in dance began at 11, when I followed my sibling to an after-school program by the Angkor Dance Troupe in Lowell, unaware that it would shape my future. A pivotal moment came when Neakru Phen Yom, a Khmer Rouge survivor, passed on foundational movement knowledge—knowledge not taught at the School of Fine Arts. By 18, I had mastered the role of “Yeak” [ogre], this experience has profoundly shaped my practice and connection to Cambodian Classical Dance.

Born and raised in Cambodia, I navigate the intersection of multiple cultures, languages, and worldviews. As a pioneering Cambodian American dance practitioner, my focus is on creating arts programs for the Cambodian diaspora. Having grown up amidst cycles of fear, poverty, suffering, and generational trauma, I am deeply committed to cultural preservation and innovation for social change within my community. Currently, as Program Director at Angkor Dance Troupe, I aim to sustain practices that intertwine Cambodian Classical and Contemporary dance, renewing appreciation for the art form. My practice blends traditional master-apprentice training with innovative approaches centered around the Diasporic imagination. 

As co-founder of Urban Khmer Ballet (UBK), one of Lowell’s most vertical dance troupes, we challenge traditional boundaries through contemporary practice. Our work, celebrated as Reclaiming Imagination, embodies the evolving Cambodian identity and has been featured at music and art festivals and conferences. As a cross-disciplinary creator, I draw from interconnected understandings of humanity, history, nature, and folklore. My holistic approach to developing new work in the performing arts has inspired many creative Khmae Americans to embrace social change.

Angkor Dance Troupe, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

© Copyright 2024 Angkor Dance Troupe, Inc.

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