Champey Academy of Arts
A non-profit arts school in the heart of Phnom Penh, offering Khmer dance, music, and painting for underprivileged youth — an immersive and participatory experience at the core of Cambodian heritage.
The Champey Academy of Arts (CAA) is a non-profit traditional arts school run by the Kasumisou Foundation, dedicated to preserving and passing on Khmer culture to underprivileged youth aged 5 to 22. It serves as a community refuge and a unique cultural stop for travellers, far removed from static museums.
Disciplines & Daily Courses
Khmer Dance: classical styles (Apsara) and narrative folk dances. Cambodian Music: local instruments; on Fridays and Saturdays, chapey dang veng (long-necked guitar for musical storytelling) classes. Drawing & Painting: traditional religious and historical styles, as well as contemporary painting.
Visitor Experience
Wander through the vibrant pavilions: students and teachers explain the spiritual meaning behind gestures, invite you to try instruments, don costumes, or join in the dance. The on-site shop sells handicrafts and student paintings — purchases and tips fund scholarships and stipends for senior students.
Address: n° 1E0z, street 19z, Sangkat Chey Chamnas (small alley behind the University of Fine Arts and near the National Museum). Hours: Mon.–Sat. 7:30 AM–11:00 AM and 1:30 PM–5:00 PM (closed Sundays and public holidays). Entry: contribution of around 6 USD to support the school. Groups: please notify the day before by phone or Facebook.
At Champey Academy, you don't just watch Khmer dance; you experience it, understand each gesture, and leave with the feeling of having supported a generation of artists.
Géraldine & Jean-Pierre
À vivre sur place
- Cours de danse classique et folklorique (observation)
- Musique traditionnelle et chapey dang veng
- Ateliers dessin et peinture khmère
- Essai de costumes et participation à la danse
- Boutique artisanat et toiles d'élèves
Photo gallery
Contact
- Address: N° 1E0z, rue 19z, Sangkat Chey Chamnas, Phnom Penh (ruelle derrière l'Université des Beaux-Arts, près du Musée national)
- Hours: Lundi – samedi : 7h30 – 11h00 et 13h30 – 17h00 (fermé dimanche et jours fériés)
- Website: https://kasumisou.org/champey-academy-of-arts/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/champeycademyofarts/
- Phone: +855 17 337 756 · +855 23 555 2057
- Email: info.champey@gmail.com