“We are awakening to the stories that have been told and yet to be told by our ancestors.”
The Cambodian Cultural Centre —a newly founded non-profit—invites you and your loved ones to celebrate the vibrancy and resilience of Cambodian arts and culture.
This immersive community gathering commemorates the 50th year anniversary of the fall of Phnom Penh to the Khmer Rouge in 1975.
Roots of Compassion is an interactive and moving experience featuring powerful storytelling through classical dance, photography and poetry.
🌏 Roots of Compassion Features:
💃 Traditional Cambodian Dance
A rare performance of Apsara dance and other classical and folk dances by Cambodian Classical and Folk Dance Northwest from Tacoma, WA.
Witness a powerful revival of an ancient art form, one that has been fading in British Columbia.
📸 Digital Photography Exhibit: Children of Kampuchea
Historic images by French photojournalist Roland Neveu, one of the few who documented the fall of Phnom Penh in 1975.
Additional curated photographs from the Cambodian-Canadian community, sharing intimate glimpses of heritage, identity, and resilience.
🎤 Live Poetry & Music
Poets Rosemary Nowicki, Chris B. Patterson, and Sophea Heang will recite original works inspired by the exhibit.
Narrative storytelling by Peter Heang
With live musical accompaniment by Edgar Olaguer.
🍽️ Food & Drinks
Enjoy light refreshments and traditional Cambodian snacks as we share stories and community in a warm, welcoming space.
Phnom Penh sandwiches (French baguette style)(free with general admission +)
Khmer beef and chicken BBQ skewers, mango or papaya salad, coconut jasmine rice (in-ticket and on-site available)
Complimentary refreshments (longan juice & water)
Specialty beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) (in-ticket and on-site available)
🧡 Why You Should Come
Honor and remember Khmer history, survival, and artistry
Build community and forge intergenerational connections
Support the launch of the Cambodian Cultural Center non-profit in BC
Experience a unique fusion of art, memory, and movement
Be part of this cultural renaissance.
Together, we remember. Together, we rise.
VIP Tickets include:
Complimentary Phnom Penh sandwich (French baguette style)
2 Khmer beef/chicken skewers with rice and pickled vegetables
Refreshments and 2 specialty beverages (alcoholic or non-alcoholic)
Pictures with you and Cambodian Classical Folk Dance Northwest
VVIP Tickets include:
Complimentary Phnom Penh sandwich (French baguette style)
2 Khmer beef/chicken skewers with rice and pickled vegetables
Refreshments and unlimited specialty beverages (alcoholic or non-alcoholic)
Pictures with you and Cambodian Classical Folk Dance Northwest
A special table for you full of beautiful decor
A free Khmer-inspired gift package
Also check out other Arts events in Vancouver, Literary Art events in Vancouver, Dance events in Vancouver.
