Siem Reap: Phare Cambodian Circus Show & Backstage Access

Summary

Siem Reap circus night real stories live music & local artists

You’ll sit under Siem Reap’s circus tent as local artists perform true Cambodian stories with acrobatics and live music — sometimes funny, sometimes raw. With backstage access before the show, you’ll meet performers and see costumes up close. Expect laughter, surprises, and moments that stay with you long after.

What’s the experience like?

You know that feeling when you’re not sure what to expect, but the air is buzzing anyway? That was me outside the big red-and-white tent in Siem Reap, ticket in hand for the Phare Cambodian Circus show. The smell of popcorn mixed with something sweet — maybe jackfruit? — drifted around while people chatted in a dozen languages. Our guide, Dara, waved us over with this huge grin and led us behind the scenes first (we’d booked the “Insider” thing). It was quieter there, except for a distant thumping — someone practicing flips. Costumes everywhere, a sewing machine humming. One of the performers, Sopheak, showed us how he tapes his wrists before a show. I tried to ask about his act in Khmer and totally butchered it; he just laughed and said “wait and see.”

The show itself… I mean, it’s not your usual circus. There’s no ringmaster barking orders or animals doing tricks. Instead, these young Cambodian artists tell their own stories — some funny, some honestly kind of heavy — using acrobatics and wild live music that rattles your seat. At one point two guys balanced on each other’s backs while a woman sang something haunting; I got goosebumps and realized I’d been holding my breath. Kids in the audience shrieked during the slapstick bits (there’s a lot of flying hats), but then everyone went silent for the sadder parts. It felt like being let into someone’s memories.

I didn’t expect to feel so connected to Siem Reap by watching a circus show. Maybe it was seeing how proud Dara looked when he talked about Phare Ponleu Selpak school — he used to study there too — or maybe it was just the way everyone cheered at the end like they knew these performers personally. Walking out into the warm night after, my head still full of drumbeats and bright colors, I kept thinking about Sopheak’s laugh backstage. Makes you wonder what stories you’d share if you had that kind of stage.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Attend Phare Cambodian Circus Show

• Arrive by 6:15pm for backstage visit
• Explore artist and technician areas
• Watch live circus performance
• Enjoy theater, music, dance acts
• Experience stories from Cambodian artists

Top questions

What time should I arrive for Phare Circus in Siem Reap?

Arrive by 6:15pm if you have backstage access; general seating begins 30 minutes before showtime.

Is Phare Circus wheelchair accessible?

Yes, but travelers needing wheelchairs should inform in advance for arrangements.

Can late arrivals enter Phare Circus?

No entrance is permitted once the show has started; late arrivals may be rescheduled if space allows.

Does Phare Circus include live music?

Yes, all performances feature live music along with acrobatics and theater.

Where do Phare Circus performers come from?

The artists are graduates from Phare Ponleu Selpak non-profit school in Cambodia.

Is public transportation available near Phare Circus?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby in Siem Reap.

Are refunds available for missed shows?

Refunds or changes must be made at least one day in advance; no refunds for late arrivals.

What’s included

Your evening includes entry to Siem Reap’s most original live performance by graduates of Phare Ponleu Selpak school. If you choose the Insider option, you’ll also get a backstage visit to meet artists and see costume work areas before finding your seat under the big top.