This classical dance was created by the Royal University of Fine Arts in Phnom Penh in the 1950's, but it has it roots in the 9th century Angkor empire. The celestial Apsaras are key figures in Cambodian myth, connecting the human world to the gods.

Thousands of carvings depicting Apsaras can be found on the stone temples throughout Cambodia. The golden head-dresses worn by the dancers evoke the tall spires of Angkor Wat.