Nestled amidst the mystical temples of Angkor Wat, Anantara Angkor Resort unveils a captivating experience that transcends mere dining – the Angkorian Dining Theatre. This exclusive offering blends delectable cuisine with captivating performances, transporting guests on a journey through Cambodia’s rich heritage.
An Evening Steeped in Tradition
Imagine a balmy Cambodian evening, the sun dipping below the horizon as you arrive at the tranquil Frangipani Courtyard of Anantara Angkor Resort. Here, amidst the resort’s serene ambiance, an unforgettable adventure awaits:
- Designer Dining: The Angkorian Dining Theatre is an exquisite addition to the resort’s signature “Designer Dining” collection. Combining culinary artistry with cultural immersion, this experience offers a unique perspective on Cambodian heritage.
As twilight deepens, the stage is set for an evening of captivating entertainment and delectable delights.
A Symphony of Senses: Martial Art and Shadow Puppetry
The Angkorian Dining Theatre unfolds in a series of captivating performances:
- Mesmerizing Martial Arts: The evening opens with a mesmerizing Bakotor performance. This traditional martial art draws inspiration from the prowess of ancient Khmer warriors, showcasing a blend of grace and power.
- UNESCO-recognized Art Form: Following the Bakotor performance, the pièce de résistance takes center stage: a captivating shadow puppet show. Known locally as Sbek Thom, this intricate art form is recognized by UNESCO as the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Sbek Thom utilizes meticulously crafted puppets, painstakingly created from painted cowhide and wood according to centuries-old traditions. As the puppeteers manipulate these intricate figures against a backlit screen, captivating stories unfold in the gathering darkness.
A Culinary Journey with Local Delicacies
While the cultural performances enthrall, the culinary journey forms the heart of the Angkorian Dining Theatre:
- Five-Course Culinary Delights: A meticulously crafted five-course menu tantalizes your taste buds with a symphony of local flavors.
- Cambodian Cuisine Showcase: From the melt-in-your-mouth Kep crab cakes and the rich Mekong langoustine soup to the aromatic lamb shank Saraman curry and the decadent baked Alaska layered with local mango, each course is a celebration of Cambodian culinary artistry.
- Wine Pairings: To enhance the experience, each dish is thoughtfully paired with meticulously chosen wines, ensuring a perfect harmony of flavors throughout the evening.
The Angkorian Dining Theatre strives to provide a complete sensory experience, captivating both the eyes and the palate. As you savor the exquisite cuisine, the enchanting shadow puppetry unfolds on the screen, offering a glimpse into Cambodian folklore and mythology.
Reviving a Cultural Legacy
The Angkorian Dining Theatre transcends mere entertainment. It plays a vital role in preserving a significant part of Cambodia’s cultural heritage:
- Supporting Sbek Thom: Supratik Guha, General Manager of Anantara Angkor Resort, emphasizes the importance of reviving the art form of Sbek Thom. He explains how the Khmer Rouge regime led to decades of neglect, and the Angkorian Dining Theatre actively promotes the art form’s authentic experience.
By showcasing Sbek Thom within this luxurious setting, the resort contributes to its continued preservation and appreciation by future generations.
