The resulting artwork immerses visitors in the sophisticated, highly symbolic world of Cambodian classic dance via evocative paintings, illustrations, photography, and sculptures alongside rare masks, costumes and crowns on loan from the royal family. As the first of its kind in Cambodia, the landmark exhibition will place at the hotel’s 35th-floor Rosewood Phnom Penh Art Gallery from March 3 to June 30, 2020.

“Rosewood Phnom Penh is honored to present ‘20 Eyes on the Royal Ballet 2020’ in celebration of the most influential and meaningful art form in Cambodian culture,” said Michael Parker, managing director of Rosewood Phnom Penh. “As part of our A Sense of Place philosophy, the exhibition offers visitors a chance to experience the incredible beauty of the ballet through the lens of 10 different artists who employ wide-ranging styles, from sketching and silkscreens to street art and careful reproductions of extinct Khmer instruments that were created by a music archeologist based on Angkor Wat’s ancient bas-relief sculptures.”

The pride of the nation

Named an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO World Heritage in 2003, the Royal Ballet is a quintessential element of Khmer identity. For more than a millennium, the ballet has connected Cambodians across every province, telling the country’s collective story through mythological poetry, symbolic and precise dance gestures, ornate costumes covered in semi-precious gems, and deeply moving music.

Once reserved for the royal court, the Royal Ballet represents the height of sophistication and spirituality; classical Khmer dancers, in particular, are considered the archetype of elegance and aesthetics, leaving guests spellbound by their radiance and grace as they perform highly technical movements that take decades of intense training and dedication to master.

Diverse and dynamic interpretations

Under the patronage of the Norodom Buppha Devi Charity Association, represented by HRH Prince Sisowath Tesso, Rosewood Phnom Penh invited 10 local and international artists to capture the beauty, brilliance, and profound cultural meaning of the Royal Ballet – offering each full creative freedom to play and experiment.

Amongst the local talents on display, Suos Sodavy presents delicate drawings that reflect the spirit of Khmer culture, while acclaimed Cambodian painter Chhim Sothy showcases abstract paintings of mythological dancers in explosive colors.

Born in the southern province of Kampot, Din Art focuses on the captivating classical dancers who bring the Royal Ballet to life, and self-taught artist Chanton Tep creates unexpected depictions of resplendent Apsara dancers in a Cubist style. Sot Serey, also known as Soben, is a prominent Cambodian graphic designer and illustrator who depicts traditional classical Khmer dances using surprising digital techniques.

The exhibition will also feature intricate hand-printed silkscreens and a screen-printing workshop by Phnom Penh-based studio Heartwork, and stunning photography by Swedish photographer Anders Jiras, who has spent decades documenting Cambodian dance forms. Adding to the diverse set of perspectives, Canadian-Cambodian street artist FONKi, who is thought to have pioneered urban art in Cambodia, will capture the Royal Ballet’s majesty with his edgy, graphic style.

As a complement to the experimental artwork, Rosewood Phnom Penh Art Gallery will also feature historic archives compiled by the late George Groslier – a celebrated artist, author, and architect who designed the National Museum of Cambodia and founded the School of Cambodian Arts – and fascinating orchestral artifacts by music archaeologist Patrick Kersalé. To honor of the ballet, Kersalé will share his collection of extinct instruments from the 7th to the 16th centuries – all of which he recreated based on 30 years of archeological and anthropological studies in Cambodia.

Rosewood Phnom Penh’s ‘20 Eyes on the Royal Ballet 2020’ exhibition is dedicated to the late Her Royal Highness Princess Norodom Buppha Devi who passed away at the end of 2019. The Princess was a major supporter of the arts, not only serving as the previous director of the Royal Ballet of Cambodia but also a talented dancer who captivated Cambodia – on and off the stage.

Photo by: Supplied 

On the menu, Zhan Liang’s masterful chefs present contemporary adaptations of authentic dishes, turning a spotlight on Cantonese, Sichuanese, and Northern Chinese cuisines. Within the spacious show barbecue area, skilled chefs prepare dishes in front of diners’ eyes. The centerpiece is the Roasting Station, where seasoned chefs expertly concoct premium meat dishes to perfection. Behind the scene, a dim sum expert handcrafts delicate Mekong Lobster, Yunnan Ham Dumplings, Morel Mushroom, Abalone and Chicken Dumplings, or Wagyu Beef Mushroom Bao Buns, while Zhan Liang’s wok specialist stir-fries scrumptious noodles and superbly fresh vegetables. Zhan Liang also offers an exceptional selection of live seafood prepared to order, alongside cooked delicacies such as abalone and sea cucumber.

In line with Rosewood Hotels & Resorts’ culinary experience concept A Sense of Taste and the Partners in Provenance initiative, the chefs are committed to source, present and showcase locally produced, sustainable, seasonal ingredients while respecting the cooking methods of the Chinese cuisine, resulting in authentic flavors. Zhan Liang associates are proud to honor the timeless and intricate connections between Cambodia and China with their creations.

Another highlight is the stunning Tea Library, which is home to a curated exquisite selection of 60 premium teas sourced across the world. In this rich and regal atmosphere, Zhan Liang’s esteemed sommelier is on hand for personalized tea suggestions, based on each guest’s mood and preferences. This innovative tea list is a good reason to come back and discover more surprising tea flavors. The chef also expresses his creativity around tea, with jasmine tea-smoked beef ribs and a tea-infused dessert.  Alongside its impressive tea collection, Zhan Liang proudly serves a selection of cocktails infused with Chinese ingredients, Chinese liquors, rice wine, an extensive wine list, and several Chinese beers, including a Jasmine rice beer.

The restaurant’s refined, modern interior design further enhances the culinary journey. A breathtaking atmosphere envelopes guests in serenity and sophistication, incorporating inspiration from powerful Cambodian temples and traditional Chinese medicine apothecaries. Pale jade brick walls and gleaming wooden accents surround diners with depth and culture, while contemporary lantern chandeliers glow overhead for a truly extraordinary experience.

As part of Rosewood’s A Sense of Place® philosophy, Zhan Liang showcases vibrant Sino-Cambodian artwork, including an exquisite mountain landscape tapestry by House of Tai Ping, a handmade rug and textile specialist headquartered in Hong Kong. The restaurant also features mixed media works by Leang Seckon, a celebrated Cambodian artist who explores social issues through the lens of ancient Chinese-Cambodian legends. His work, Lucky Crocodile Star, depicts the Himalayan Mountains giving birth to the fabled Mekong River, which in turn becomes the lifeforce of Phnom Penh, while Piece Friendship represents a magical relationship a Chinese man and a Khmer Goddess, whose son eventually builds Angkor Wat. Offering another perspective, the restaurant also displays striking, technicolor portraits by the artist JM Robert, who draws from pop art and street art techniques to express the beauty of Sino-Khmer ladies on a canvas.

Four enchanting areas – the Tea Library, Bar, Main Dining Room, and three Private Dining Rooms – ensure guests find the perfect environment to suit every occasion, from refreshments at the bar to a family reunion in the Main Dining Room, or a discreet business meeting in one of the sumptuous private dining spaces. The jewel in the crown is the meticulously appointed Entertainment Private Dining Room, which includes tailored set menus, personal service, a state-of-the-art karaoke machine, and innovative visual equipment for business events and family celebrations for up to 20 guests.

Zhan Liang chef David Pang’s two-decade-long career is an impressive showcase of culinary skills. He began as a wok chef in Greater China and continued his culinary odyssey in the Middle East. David’s next stop was in Malaysia at Fuhu, a contemporary Chinese restaurant created by Michelin-starred and celebrity chef Alvin Leung, where he developed his innovative flair. At Zhan Liang, Chef Pang lets his experience shine as Chinese Executive Chef, showcasing his understanding and appreciation of refined Cantonese, Sichuanese, and Northern Chinese cuisines. Aiming to fulfill guests with a unique dining experience, the chef infuses each dish with his passion and creativity, like the not-to-be-missed jasmine tea-smoked beef ribs.

Photo by: Sakura Engly & Supplied 

Give the gift of experiences and Rosewood Phnom Penh’s thoughtful “Sense of Experiences”packages are truly distinctive, personalized gifts that can be shared with family, friends or a special someone – because there’s nothing more valuable than spending quality time together during the holidays. Vouchers can be bought online or directly at the hotel.

The perfect gift for your significant other, the Phnom Penh Retreat (USD318 for two) delivers romance in spades. After settling into a luxurious Executive Room, pop open a bottle of complimentary prosecco at Sora – Phnom Penh’s highest sky bar – followed by a leisurely Japanese dinner at Iza, our robata-yaki grill. The next morning, linger over breakfast at Brasserie Louis before putting your feet up for a 60-minute signature treatment at Sense, A Rosewood Spa.

Designed with wellness enthusiasts in mind, the Absolute Spacation package (USD140 per person) will pamper your loved one all day long with a blissful, 90-minute body massage or facial treatment, a healthy lunch by the pool, and a manicure at the highly exclusive Pedi:Mani:Cure Studio by Bastien Gonzalez – one of just 20 studios in the world.

And for foodies, the Sense of Romance package (USD240 for two) promises a sophisticated date night at Cuts, where a four-course dinner and a bottle of prosecco await. Perched on the 38th floor, the sky-high restaurant never fails to impress thanks to the selection of premium dry-aged steaks, immense Wine Vault (which contains more than 3,000 bottles), chic red-leather seating, and magnificent views of the legendary Mekong River.

Celebrating with a group? Rosewood Phnom Penh’s Sense of Celebration package (USD450 for 10) will transport you and nine guests to a swish private cabana at Sora sky bar. Invite friends or family to share the panoramic city views, Japanese snacks, cake, and free-flow menu of tipples (Including premium Champagne Billecart-Salmon, Roku Gin and Samai Rum) for a night to remember.

Unforgettable festive dining experiences To celebrate holiday season in style, Rosewood Phnom Penh has decked the halls with sophisticated festive accents, while decadent menus spoil diners across our five restaurants and bars:

Brasserie Louis: For a lavish holiday dinner, book a table at Brasserie Louis where our talented chefs will present distinct menus for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve with a special focus on European Christmas specialties. On New Year’s Eve, take your five-course dinner up a notch with an optional glass of Champagne, free-flow wine, plus two drink tokens to use at Sora’s New Year’s Countdown party (USD150-180 per person).

Cuts: Ever stylish and sophisticated, Cuts will showcase its world-class culinary flair this holiday with a six-course Christmas Eve dinner (USD225 per person) and a six-course Christmas Day dinner (USD215 per person). On New Year’s Eve, guests can pair a six-course New Year’s Eve dinner (USD285-340 per person) with optional free-flow wine and Champagne, as well as two drink tokens for Sora where they can celebrate the New Year amongst the clouds.

The Living Room: This holiday season, the Living Room will serve a Festive Afternoon Tea (USD34 per person) every day from noon to 5 p.m. At this chic address, savor dainty finger sandwiches and meticulous, holiday-inspired pastries while catching up with your nearest and dearest.

Iza: Veering away from Western traditions, izakaya-style Iza offers a more informal holiday dining experience, featuring an eight-course menu (USD100 per person) on Christmas Eve and a seven-course menu on Christmas Day (USD128 per person) that are both brimming with fresh seafood, prime cuts, and delicate Japanese flavors.

On New Year’s Eve, Iza turns a spotlight on seafood with an abundant moriawase platter of jet-fresh sushi and sashimi (USD180-240) – all hand-selected by our chef. In addition, guests can add an optional glass of Champagne, free-flow beer, sake, and two drink tokens for Sora’s countdown event.

Sora: As Phnom Penh’s highest bar, Sora is the place to see and be seen on New Year’s Eve. To ring in 2020 in style, purchase tickets to the epic alfresco soiree (USD50 per person, includes 2 drinks), reserve a private sofa for 10-15 people, (USD1,200-1,800) or claim the entire Mezzanine VIP Area (USD2,500).

When booking a private space, guests will not only enjoy a glamorous outdoor cabana all to themselves, but also several bottles of house spirits, Champagne and gourmet bar snacks to ensure your 2020 kicks off with a bang!

For dining enquiries or reservations, please call +855 23 936 866 or email phnompenh.fnbreservation@rosewoodhotels.com

Rosewood Phnom Penh presents an ultra-luxury hospitality experience in the Cambodian capital.  The hotel is located on the top 14 floors of Vattanac Capital Tower in the central business district, with unobstructed views of the city and the fabled Mekong River from its position within the tallest building in the capital.  Rosewood Phnom Penh embraces the A Sense of Place^® philosophy of Rosewood Hotels & Resorts^® and reflects the location’s history, culture and sensibilities. It features 175 rooms and suites; five restaurants and lounges, including Sora, a sky bar on a cantilevered terrace; Sense, A Rosewood Spa; a fitness center; a 22-meter indoor lap swimming pool; and meeting facilities that include The Pavilion residential-style meeting and function space.

For more information or reservations, please contact your travel professional, the hotel directly at phnompenh.reservations@rosewoodhotels.com or telephone +855 239 36 888.

For more information:  rosewoodhotels.com/en/phnom-penh  and Connect with us:  Facebook  Instagram @rosewoodphnompenh

Photo by: Supplied 

Mr. Michael Parker, Managing Director of Rosewood Phnom Penh said, “Rosewood Phnom Penh is delighted to support the growing Cambodian art scene, from upcoming artists to established and recognized talents.” he adds “Our exhibition space and public areas offer an array of amazing venues for local Cambodians and guests from overseas to view a wide selection of Cambodian art which all encompass our A Sense of Place philosophy.”

The exhibition will be on display and evolving until Friday 31st of January 2020, featuring collaborations with other artists such as augmented reality Japanese artist Kenichiro.

Based on their own personal experience with Cambodia, this new body of work demonstrates FONKi and Ranon Phal’s desire to bring forward their cultural roots and common love for the Kingdom of Wonders.

“Khmer Renaissance” is a contemporary pictorial echo of this new era in the country and the world.  It is a plunged in. A reflection of Cambodian its people from different generations, background and social classes, the old versus s the new, the streets, ancient Khmer culture and heritage, giving them a playful new life while creating new stories, triggering the audience’s imagination and subjective point of view on today’s Cambodia.

Ranon spent five years studying classical techniques at the prestigious centennial Academy of Fine Arts of Brera in Milan. Since his return a year ago, and his own “renaissance” surviving and beating leukemia 10 years ago. this is the first time his past and new work is exhibited in a gallery setting. A young master of the ink brush, Ranon spontaneously draws his astonishing lines with no sketches, showing his confidence and mastery for his craft while portraying life’s both strong and fragile narratives.

FONKi, known for being one of the pioneers of Cambodia’s street art scene, is presenting a new series of work following his past seven years focusing on travelling and painting all around the “Kingdom of Wonders” While used to painting on monumental walls around the world, his new collection exclusively presented at Rosewood Phnom Penh showcases the energy of the streets focused on smaller scale canvases. His imagery is influenced by 14 years of painting walls, impersonating the rawness and freedom of graffiti fused with a technique acquired by his fascination of realistic paintings from the Renaissance’s masters.

Rosewood Phnom Penh presents an ultra-luxury hospitality experience in the Cambodian capital. The hotel is located on the top 14 floors of Vattanac Capital Tower in the central business district, with unobstructed views of the city and the fabled Mekong River from its position within the tallest building in the capital. Rosewood Phnom Penh embraces the Rosewood Brand’s A Sense of Place® philosophy and reflects the location’s history, culture and sensibilities. It features 175 rooms and suites; five restaurants and lounges, including Sora, a sky bar on a cantilevered terrace; Sense, A Rosewood Spa; a fitness center; a 22-meter indoor lap swimming pool; and meeting facilities that include The Pavilion residential-style meeting and function space.

For more information or reservations, please contact phnompenh.reservations@rosewoodhotels.com or +855 23 936 888

Photo by: Supplied 

Chef Nak, as she prefers to be called, is just 33 years old and entirely self-taught. But she is attracting attention beyond Cambodia’s borders with her efforts to preserve the country’s endangered foodways. We are at Mahope, her restaurant and cooking school, housed in a traditional Khmer villa on the palm-dappled outskirts of Phnom Penh. Here, in the home she shares with her husband and two young sons, she holds culinary classes and serves private, one-booking-at-a-time dinners of five courses, among them the minimalist fish curry before me. It is among the most familiar dishes in an archive Nak is compiling of Khmer recipes—part of her broader initiative to track down native culinary traditions and share them with the world through books, teaching, television, and social media.

Whenever she can, Nak leaves the country’s bustling capital for Cambodia’s still-rustic provinces. “I go to people’s homes and ask about their family’s favorite dishes and recipes,” she says. “I always request to speak with the oldest person in the house, to learn what people ate before the Khmer Rouge,” the murderous regime that held power from 1974 to 1979. During a recent visit to Siem Reap province, north of Phnom Penh, she fondly recalls tasting a lemongrass- and tamarind-infused duck soup with palm fruit “used as a vegetable—which I’d never seen before.” (More commonly, she explains, its seeds are extracted and used to add crunch to dessert toppings.) And Nak speaks with infectious—though, to me, unpersuasive—enthusiasm for a northern dish of snakeheads and glass noodles wrapped in palm leaves. Back in Phnom Penh, her ever-changing menus represent a synthesis of these far-flung finds, while also educating her guests in the rich complexities of Cambodia’s distinct cuisine. “Every single dish has a story behind it,” she says, motioning to the food in front of us. “And I know we are running out of time.”

Nak’s endeavors to preserve her country’s precarious culinary heritage grew out of the eight years she spent working for Cambodian Living Arts, a program founded after the fall of the Khmer Rouge to track down the surviving masters of Khmer art, music and dance. Starting as an office assistant, Nak worked her way up to senior management in the organization, which safeguards the country’s heritage by teaching it to a new generation, who then travel the world to perform and demonstrate these nearly lost traditions.

“Seeking out the ‘grannies’ is something I learned at Cambodia Living Arts,” Nak recalls. Back then, she would visit eight to ten different provinces each week to meet with survivors of what she simply calls “the fighting times,” during which artists and other intellectuals were targeted by Pol Pot’s vicious Khmer Rouge guerrillas. It was on those travels that she also observed local cuisine disappearing, as younger Cambodians started migrating to cities and recipes were no longer passed from generation to generation. As with the famed Apsara dances that appear chiseled into the walls at Angkor Wat, Cambodia’s culinary history was starting to vanish in the modern world.

Since going out on her own, Nak has developed an impressive arsenal of tactics to combat this loss of edible cultural heritage. She produces a Khmer cooking series on YouTube, and expects to release her first book by the end of 2018. She has already published more than 150 Cambodian recipes on her website, rotanak.co. “Since I was very young, I always wanted to do something with cooking,” she says as she sets down a plate of crispy shrimp cakes with Kampot pepper and lime sauce by the swimming pool. “I also saw the potential to create meaningful cultural exchange through food—which everyone can also just enjoy.” And she views Mahope as an opportunity to underscore the health benefits of her native cuisine, rich in superfoods like ginger, turmeric, and bitter melon. Later in the evening, as a luscious crescent of thinly sliced mango and a bundle of sticky rice wrapped in a palm frond arrives in front of each guest, I tell her I admire her motivation and ambition. “I really want to educate people,” she responds modestly. “Food is simply my medium.”

Photo by: Supplied