ItaCham is honoured to announce the appointment of the Princess Buppha Devi Dance School as an Honorary Member, in recognition of its vital role in preserving and promoting the Royal Ballet of Cambodia — a jewel of Khmer heritage and a powerful symbol of cultural diplomacy.
Founded in honour of the late Princess Norodom Buppha Devi, the school is a non-profit cultural association dedicated to providing artistic training to those wishing to gain access to the knowledge of traditional Cambodian arts. As Minister of Culture and Fine Arts from 1999 to 2004, Princess Buppha Devi played an instrumental role in revitalising the Royal Ballet, culminating in its inscription on UNESCO’s List of the Oral and Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2003. Her lifelong devotion to Khmer classical dance safeguarded a centuries-old tradition and shared its refined beauty with audiences worldwide, raising Cambodia’s cultural profile with grace and determination.
Today, under the distinguished leadership of His Royal Highness Prince Sisowath Tesso, the Princess Buppha Devi Dance School continues this noble mission. With complimentary dance lessons offered every weekend at the Canadian International School of Phnom Penh and public performances held at Treellion Park, the school remains a beacon of hope and opportunity for young talents. These performances not only nurture the artistic journey of the students but also contribute to supporting them financially, reflecting the spirit of generosity and dedication that has always characterised the Royal Ballet tradition.
Prince Tesso’s tireless commitment, profound knowledge, and refined elegance have been instrumental in extending the reach of the Royal Ballet beyond Cambodia’s borders. Through his guidance, the school remains firmly rooted in the royal vision of Princess Buppha Devi while embracing new opportunities to present Khmer classical dance to the world.
ItaCham believes that arts and cultural diplomacy are essential pillars for strengthening the ties between Italy and Cambodia. The appointment of the Princess Buppha Devi Dance School as an honorary member of ItaCham reaffirms our deep respect for the Khmer Royal Ballet and its invaluable role in the cultural heritage of Cambodia. This honorary membership reflects ItaCham’s ongoing mission to connect the two countries through art, education, and culture, celebrating shared values of beauty, tradition, and artistic excellence.
We look forward to many future collaborations that will promote cultural ties between Italy and Cambodia, support the growth of the Khmer Royal Ballet in Italy, and encourage the flourishing of artistic and educational initiatives that honour the legacy of Princess Buppha Devi and the timeless spirit of Cambodian arts.
Learn more about Princess Buppha Devi Dance School here.
