CLEAN : Cambodia's first gay dance troupe upends centuries of tradition

Pam Surano Coke, a dancer and choreographer from Long Beach, founded Cambodia's first gay dance company. She discusses the impact of the Camero genocide on classical dance, which led to a significant loss of cultural knowledge. Pam shares her journey of training young dancers to form a cohesive dance company, emphasizing the importance of preserving traditional dance while also creating new, contemporary performances. Her work aims to foster change and bring new stories to the forefront of dance.

What is Pam Surano Coke known for founding?

• A contemporary art gallery

• A cultural heritage museum

• Cambodia's first gay dance company

• A classical music school

What was a significant consequence of the Camero genocide on the arts?

• The loss of 90% of classical dancers

• The introduction of modern dance techniques

• The rise of new dance forms

• The creation of a new dance company

What does Pam Surano Coke emphasize about the role of a dancer?

• Dancers are cultural critics

• Dancers carry history and knowledge

• Dancers are focused on physical fitness

• Dancers are primarily entertainers

What did Pam Surano Coke achieve after training young men in her living room?

• They started a new art movement

• They formed a synchronized dance company

• They opened a dance school

• They became a successful music band

What is the historical significance of classical dance according to Pam?

• It is a form of entertainment

• It is a prayer for rain and prosperity

• It is a modern art form

• It is a competitive sport

Why does Pam believe it's important to create new dance forms?

• To tell new stories and create new images

• To attract more tourists

• To preserve ancient traditions

• To compete in international competitions

What was the original purpose of classical dance as mentioned by Pam?

• To compete in dance festivals

• To entertain royalty

• To serve as a prayer and movement for rain and fertility

• To teach children about history