Chenla Art Centre, a new platform for the partnership between OCIC Group and Princess Buppha Devi School

The OCIC Group and Princess Buppha Devi Dance School have embarked on an inspiring new partnership aimed at preserving and promoting the country's traditional arts.

This alliance builds on an already strong foundation. Under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Sisowath Tesso, free dance classes at the Princess Buppha Devi Dance School are currently being offered at the Canadian International School of Phnom Penh (CIS), an OCIC-affiliated institution. This initiative promotes inclusion and diversity among young learners in a modern educational setting, ensuring that the timeless art of Khmer classical dance continues to thrive across generations.

Beyond promoting talent, OCIC Group's commitment extends to supporting Cambodia's cultural ecosystem at large. The company previously supported the acclaimed documentary ‘La Beauté du Geste’ by filmmaker Xavier de Lauzanne, a heartfelt tribute to the grace and transmission of traditional Khmer dance.

At the heart of this renewed partnership is the Chenla Art Centre, an iconic institution inaugurated in 1969 under the visionary patronage of His Majesty King Norodom Sihanouk. Formerly known as the Chenla State Cinema and featured in the second Phnom Penh International Film Festival, this theatre remains a historic gem designed by legendary architect Vann Molyvann.

The OCIC envisions its rebirth as a multidisciplinary cultural centre, offering artists from the Princess Buppha Devi Dance School and elsewhere a prestigious stage on which to showcase their art to a wider audience.

‘This collaboration will breathe new life into Phnom Penh's cultural landscape with a dynamic, multidisciplinary space,’ said His Royal Highness Prince Sisowath Tesso.

 ‘The Princess Buppha Devi Dance School is honoured to contribute to the OCIC's initiative, offering our artists the unique privilege of performing on the historic stage of the Chenla Theatre. We aspire to create a place where all forms of dance can flourish freely, captivating both Cambodian and international audiences.’

Echoing this sentiment, Thierry Tea, Vice President of the OCIC Group, emphasised:

"Cultural expression is essential to the vitality of any city. The Chenla Art Centre embodies our mission to support artists and make cultural heritage accessible to all. "

Together, OCIC and the Princess Buppha Devi Dance School are developing an ambitious calendar of performances and cultural events. This initiative aims to showcase Khmer dance, stimulate community participation and celebrate the vibrant cultural life of Phnom Penh, reaffirming the city's status as a lively centre of tradition and innovation.