Dance in the Diaspora

The bloody history of the Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia stained the cultural identity of many Cambodians who fled their home country, but the Khmer Arts Academy in Long Beach is rekindling a passion for Cambodian culture and history through dance and storytelling. ❧ Prumsodun Ok, a 25-year-old Cambodian American, is leading the effort to resurrect the spirit of Cambodian performing art as well as foster an understanding of Cambodian history and modern issues revolving around sexuality, identity and cultural difference. Ok is the artistic director of the Khmer Arts Academy in Long Beach, a city with a large Cambodian population that is struggling with issues like gang violence, teen pregnancy and poor education. He teaches dozens of children and adults the art of classical Cambodian dance, and is preparing for a 10th anniversary gala performance in October at the Long Beach Museum of Art. Many of his students learn about Cambodian history, myth, language and customs in dance class rather than at home. The Academy has been integral in bringing awareness of Cambodian culture to the larger Long Beach community through dance, lectures and workshops.