This year more than ever, we’ve felt the heartbeat of Phare Ponleu Selpak—stronger, warmer, and more connected than before. 2024 was a year that reminded us of the power of art, the importance of coming together, and the incredible stories we create when we support one another.
It’s been a year of milestones and memories, from celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the founding to the 12th edition of Tini Tinou International Circus Festival, each one has been made all the more special because of the people who shared in it. We’re so thankful for the love and support that continues to fuel our mission and are excited to share the highlights of a year that will stay with us for years to come.
The year kicked off with a heartwarming and inspiring event—the Sangker River Charity Run on January 20. This inaugural event brought together 37 solo runners, 39 relay runners, and 59 cyclists from Battambang, across Cambodia, and from 12 countries worldwide. Set against the beautiful backdrop of the Sangker River in Battambang province, participants embraced the challenge of running and cycling long distances, all in support of Phare Ponleu Selpak’s mission to fundraise our 30th anniversary. Don't miss your chance to run, cycle, and make a difference. Register now for the 2026 Sangker River Charity Run and follow us on Facebook to stay informed!
In the months that followed, our students poured their hearts and talents into preparing for the grand 30th Anniversary Charity Gala at Rosewood Phnom Penh. From captivating contemporary dance performance (Madison Now) choreographed by Michael Laub and the Cambodian dancer-choreographer Khen Vanthy to theatrical masterpiece (End of Love) with The Acting Art Academy, and even creating stunning art pieces for the auction, every moment was filled with dedication and creativity.
Madison Now
Madison Now is a contemporary dance performance directed by Michael Laub, choreographed by Michael Laub & Khen Vanthy, and co-produced with the Institut français. Watch the trailer here.
END OF LOVE (CABARET)
END OF LOVE is the first collaboration between Phare Ponleu Selpak and The Acting Academy Phnom Penh. This contemporary cabaret theatre performance is based on the works of Angelica Liddell, Joël Pommerat, Pasolini, Hanokh Levin, Larry Tremblay, Sinn Sisamouth & Ros Sereysothea, and directed by KB Saadi.
April was a month of joy and tradition as we celebrated Khmer New Year, and it was our kindergarten students who truly stole the show. With bright smiles and endless energy, they splashed water, sang traditional songs, and embraced the cultural festivities in their own unique way. The Songkran event brought together students, parents, teachers, and members of the Battambang community, celebrating with a range of activities, including traditional Khmer New Year games like rope pulling, bag leaping, and other traditional games. The event was filled with laughter, fun, and a strong sense of community spirit, making it a fun highlight of the year.

We at Phare Ponleu Selpak believe that art is a powerful tool for expressing identity, challenging norms, and celebrating the beauty of diversity. Our commitment to inclusivity is reflected not only in the opportunities we provide for all our students but also in the art we create and showcase. During Pride Month, we had the honor of celebrating the courage and resilience of our student Sarann, a trans woman Khmer dancer, whose journey is a reflection to the power of self-expression through art.
Sarann’s story is a powerful reminder of the transformative role that art plays in embracing and celebrating diversity. Through dance, she has found a way to authentically express her identity, and in doing so, she has inspired us all. Read Sarann’s inspiring journey in our blog.
The second half of the year began with a quieter but powerful momentum, building up to the exciting events that lay ahead in November. July was a month of collaboration as we welcomed exchange students from Caisse Centrale d’Activités Sociales (CCAS), continuing our shared mission of cultural exchange between Cambodia and France.
The program brought together 10 Cambodian and 15 French youth, creating an unforgettable experience where they had the chance to immerse themselves in each other’s cultures, build new friendships, and broaden their horizons through a variety of exciting activities.
By September, our campus was filled with a sense of calm and focus as we celebrated World Wellness Weekend, embracing mindfulness and wellness workshops that supported both our students, staff and the community. The students and team also participated in the annual World Clean-up Day, setting thean example for the community to take pride in keeping their surroundings beautiful.
In October, our talented artists proudly represented Cambodia at the 2024 Asia Pacific Traditional Arts Festival in Taiwan. From October 7th to 13th, they performed daily, blending circus, music, and traditional dance in a show titled “The Light in the Darkness.” Their breathtaking performances highlighted the beauty and resilience of Cambodian culture, captivating audiences in Taiwan and leaving a lasting impression.


Tini Tinou International Circus Festival
A Celebration of Creativity and Connection
The Tini Tinou International Circus Festival, held from November 22nd to 27th, 2024, was undoubtedly the highlight of the year for Phare Ponleu Selpak. Returning for its 12th edition, over 14,000 festival goers joined the festival with over 14 million reached by media coverage, making it the biggest edition ever.



Join us on Facebook to catch the latest from Tini Tinou, including artist previews, festival highlights, and Tini Tinou 2026!
December was a time to pause, reflect, and celebrate the incredible journey of 2024, culminating in the success of our 30th Anniversary celebration in November. The event brought together governors, distinguished guests, founders, and the heart of Phare, Véronique Decrop, to honor three decades of empowering Cambodian youth through art and education.
This milestone was more than a celebration—it was a reaffirmation of our mission and the lives we continue to transform. To mark this moment, we invite you to watch a powerful video featuring Véronique Decrop, sharing Phare’s journey from humble beginnings to its profound impact on Cambodia’s creative future.
In 2024, Phare Ponleu Selpak supported over 800 children and youth through a variety of programs that combined education, creativity, and opportunity. From the playful energy of kindergarteners in our arts-based classes to the focused determination of students in our visual and performing arts programs, each child was given the tools to grow and succeed. Initiatives like the Mobile Library, which engaged 150 children weekly, and scholarships for vulnerable students ensured access to learning and development for all.
children were empowered
invested in education
These achievements were made possible by the incredible generosity of our donors, who helped us invest nearly $1.1 million in transforming lives. Your support is the foundation of this impact, and we are deeply grateful.
As we look to the future, we invite you to continue this journey with us. Your support today can provide the tools, opportunities, and inspiration that Cambodian children need to reach their full potential. Together, we can continue transforming lives through the arts.