SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA - JULY 01: Cambodian circus artists perform in front of a crowd of foreign tourists on July 1, 2015 during a performance of "Eclipse" at Phare - The Cambodian Circus in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Phare Ponleu Salpak is an organization providing free education and artistic training to Cambodian children. Students in the organization's circus program often go on to careers performing both internationally and domestically at venues like Phare - The Cambodian Circus in Siem Reap. (Photo by Taylor Weidman/Getty Images)

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Phare the Cambodian Circus

Top choice in Siem Reap

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Cambodia's answer to Cirque du Soleil, Phare the Cambodian Circus is so much more than a conventional circus, with an emphasis on performance art and a subtle yet striking social message behind each production. Cambodia's leading circus, theatre and performing-arts organisation, Phare Ponleu Selpak opened its big top for nightly shows in 2013, and the results are unique, must-see entertainment.

Several generations of performers have graduated through Phare's original Battambang campus and have gone on to perform in international shows around the world. Many of the performers have deeply moving personal stories of abuse and hardship, making their talents a triumph against the odds. An inspiring night out for adults and children alike, all proceeds are reinvested into Phare Ponleu Selpak activities. Animal lovers will be pleased to note that no animals are used in any performance.

There are additional 5pm performances from November through March and special standard tickets plus dinner are available for US$30.

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