Travelers should visit the Phare Cambodian Circus in Siem Reap to experience a 75-minute show that combines traditional Cambodian stories with modern circus arts, performed by skilled artists trained at the Phare Ponleu Selpak NGO. Tickets start at around $18, and the performances offer a compelling cultural insight with engaging storytelling, music, and acrobatics just 4 kilometers from the city center.
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Phare Cambodian Circus is a contemporary performing arts show based in Siem Reap that combines theater, music, dance, and circus arts.
Established by the Phare Ponleu Selpak NGO, it has grown into a prominent cultural attraction drawing visitors with its engaging storytelling and talented performers. The circus is located approximately 4 kilometers from Siem Reap city center and runs shows usually lasting about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Ticket prices start at around 18 USD, making it a reasonably priced cultural activity during your stay.
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What Makes Phare Circus Siem Reap Different from Other Circus Shows?
Phare Circus Siem Reap integrates traditional Cambodian stories with modern circus arts, performed by artists who have trained at the NGO's art school, blending cultural heritage with contemporary techniques.
Unlike many circuses focused solely on acrobatics or clown acts, Phare combines narrative drama and live music with acrobatics and juggling. The performers are graduates of Phare Ponleu Selpak, which supports over 650 young Cambodians annually through education in arts, reaching audiences both locally and internationally. Shows typically feature 15-20 performers, with ticket prices ranging from 18 to 25 USD depending on seating. Located about 10 minutes by tuk-tuk from Siem Reap town center, the venue provides an intimate setting accommodating around 250 spectators.
How Can Visitors Purchase Tickets for Phare Cambodian Circus?
Tickets for Phare Cambodian Circus can be bought online through their official website or at the box office near the venue in Siem Reap, with prices starting at 18 USD.
Advance booking is recommended as shows often sell out, especially during peak tourist seasons from November to February. The box office opens daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Group discounts are available for parties of 10 or more. Additionally, some local tour operators include circus tickets in their Siem Reap city tours, which typically cost between 35 and 50 USD per person, combining transport and admission.
When Are the Performances Scheduled, and How Long Do They Last?
Performances run nightly, usually starting at 7:30 PM, with each show lasting approximately 75 minutes, including a brief intermission.
The show schedule is generally from Tuesday to Sunday, with Monday being a rest day for performers. Doors open about 45 minutes before the show, allowing time to find seating and purchase refreshments. The venue is located 4 kilometers from Siem Reap city center, accessible by tuk-tuk or taxi in around 10 to 15 minutes. Matinees are rare but sometimes scheduled on special occasions or holidays.
What Should Visitors Expect from the Phare Circus Show?
Visitors should expect a theatrical performance combining circus acts with storytelling, live music, and dance that highlights Cambodian culture and social themes.
The show features a variety of acts including aerial silks, contortion, juggling, and clowning, performed by artists aged 18 to 30. Music is played live by a band with traditional instruments such as the tro and the roneat. Each performance is designed to engage audiences emotionally and intellectually. The venue provides seating options from 18 USD for standard seats to 25 USD for VIP seating with better views.
How Does Phare Cambodian Circus Contribute to the Local Community?
Phare Cambodian Circus supports the local community by providing education and employment opportunities for disadvantaged youth through the Phare Ponleu Selpak art school.
The NGO behind the circus features free education in arts, academics, and life skills to over 650 students annually. Many performers come from rural areas around Siem Reap and use their earnings to support their families. The revenue generated helps fund the school’s programs, including scholarships and community outreach. The circus has toured internationally, raising awareness and funds for Cambodian arts and culture.
What Are the Best Ways to Get to the Phare Circus Venue in Siem Reap?
The most convenient way to reach Phare Circus in Siem Reap is by tuk-tuk or taxi, with a typical 10-minute ride from the city center costing between 2 and 5 USD.
The venue is about 4 kilometers from the main Siem Reap area. Many hotels can arrange transport for guests, or visitors can negotiate directly with tuk-tuk drivers located around Pub Street or Old Market. For those staying in nearby areas like Battambang or Siem Reap, local tours often include pick-up and drop-off services for the show. Bicycles are less practical in the evening due to limited lighting and traffic.
Are There Any Nearby Attractions or Activities to Combine with a Visit to Phare Circus?
Yes, visitors can combine a visit to Phare Circus with nearby activities such as dining in Siem Reap’s lively restaurant scene or taking a sunset jeep tour of the countryside.
Several popular tours, like the Siem Reap Countryside Sunset Jeep Tour, start in the late afternoon and allow time to attend the circus afterward. Dining options near the circus range from local Khmer cuisine to international flavors, with many restaurants within 3 kilometers. For those with more time, visits to temples or a floating village boat tour can be scheduled earlier in the day. Siem Reap city center, just 4 kilometers away, has multiple cultural attractions and markets to see.
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Frequently Asked Questions
“Phare Cambodian Circus is more than just a performance; it’s a platform where young artists share stories rooted in Cambodian history and current social issues, making the show both entertaining and meaningful.”
What useful resources are available for Cambodia travelers?
General overview and history of the Phare Cambodian Circus.
Wikipedia - Phare Cambodian CircusGovernment tourism page with information on attractions, travel tips, and cultural sites in Siem Reap.
Tourism Cambodia - Siem ReapOfficial site for show schedules, ticket purchasing, and background on the circus and its NGO.
Phare Cambodian Circus Official Website
