The choreographic art of Khmer is taken its beginning from folk dances, many of which carried ceremonial character. More than any of other traditional arts in a country, royal ballet is popular, which was taught in a palace and after the overthrow of royal power. Its traditions leave roots in the deep past and related to the culture of India, Taylanda and Java. The bas-reliefs of Angkor temples with the numerous images of musicians and celestial dancers testify about the high development of musical and dancing culture of Khmer.

The plot basis of classic Khmer ballet is made by ancient legends and fairy-tales. More than 30 traditional subjects, translated into the language of dance, enters in its repertoire now. Appearance of ballet is passed escorted by an orchestra and womanish choir. Choir, disposed near an orchestra, accompanies dance and develops a subject in a song, acting part libretto. Text is read and sung. A reciter tells maintenance of next episode before every new stage.

On the present estimate this art can only who understands it, but can simply look everyone who will issue the Cambodian visa and will come to the country.

The picture of dance consists of sharp-cut, elegant bodily movements, smooth gestures of hands. Each of gestures has certain sense, suits and decorations had a large value. Masculine parties are carried out in masks, style and the color of which are different. Womanish characters do not have masks, but dancers lay on faces very bright make-up. There is not many men usually in a troupe — almost all roles are carried out by women.