Every afternoon at the yard of Bang Cro Chap Thmay pagoda (Tan Thanh commune, Can Tho city), the music and traditional Khmer dances resound. That space was launched by Ms. Lam Thi Hau - a Khmer woman who always cherishes the desire to preserve the traditional art of her people.
"A graduated from the University of Culture in Ho Chi Minh City, I wanted to return to my hometown to do something for the community. At first, only a few children studied at home, then I asked the pagoda for permission to open a class and encouraged them to participate. The class gradually increased," said Ms. Hau.
No textbooks, no splendid stages, just a temple yard, a loudspeaker and the passion of the students. Every afternoon, the free class attracts 20-30 students, some days up to 50 students. They learn familiar dances such as Romvong, Saravan, Lam Cung even the art of Ro-am.
Venerable Thach Thuol - abbot of Bang Cro Chap Thmay pagoda - shared: "We opened a class to preserve Khmer cultural values. Dance and pentatonic music are not only for performance in the festival but also help the younger generation understand and love national traditions".
After nearly 3 years, Ms. Hau's dance class has formed a professional performance team, participating in many major festivals of the Khmer people such as Chol Chnam Thmay, Sene Don-ta, Kathina medical offering and even events outside the province. "At first, I chose 15 students to form a dance team, and when I had the opportunity, I performed at festivals and festivals. Now they have become "assistants" with me to guide the class," Ms. Hau happily said.
Not only in Bang Cro Chop Thmay, every weekend evening, the premises of Doi Pagoda (Phu Loi Ward, Can Tho City) is also bustling with traditional dance. Nearly 50 children come to class not only to learn dance, but also to nurture national pride.
Ms. Thach Thi Thu Hien - a member of the Khmer Arts Group of Can Tho City, who directly teaches the class - said: "The students absorb it very quickly. She only practices two sessions a week but performs quite well. The important thing is that they love and are proud of their national dance. Many students now confidently perform in festivals, bringing joy to the community and parents.
Ms. Dinh Thi Nhuong - a resident of Phu Loi ward - shared: "My family is Khmer ethnic group, I don't want my children and grandchildren to forget customs, so I send them to school to remember their roots. Seeing the children dancing pure and simple makes me very happy".
