Enjoy Khmer Chhay-dam drum dance in Tay Ninh

(TITC) – Chhay-dam drum dance is a folk art form of the Khmer people in Truong Tay commune, Hoa Thanh town, Tay Ninh.

Chhay-dam drum dance is closely associated with the traditional culture of the Khmer people, the largest ethnic group among the 21 ethnic groups residing in Tay Ninh province. Chhay-dam drums were originally used as a tool to put the rhythm for worshipping ceremonies at the temple, and gradually there was a combination of drum dance and dragon and unicorn dance. Drum dances have also become more diverse and have been adapted to suit each festival event such as the traditional Chol Chnam Thmay New Year, the Sen Dolta ancestor worship ceremony, etc.

Photo: dantocmiennui.vn

Chhay-dam drum is made from an old areca tree trunk, hollowed out, the large head of the drum is covered with buffalo or dried python skin, the smaller tail of the drum is connected to a metal drum leg. Some distinguishing features of Chhay-dam drum dance in Tay Ninh are that the drum dancers do not need facial makeup or musical accompaniment when performing, but dance to the rhythm of the drums played with their hands and feet. Drum dance also combines choreography and martial arts such as decisive stances or movements, quick arm movements, and graceful, acrobatic bodies that are very skillful and beautiful.

In order to preserve and promote heritage values, local authorities in Tay Ninh always create conditions for Khmer people to organise traditional cultural activities, support training costs, and teach Chhay-dam drum dance to the younger generation.

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