I've raised £3000 to support Cambodian communities to share unheard stories through theatre.
Organised by Bonny Coombe
Story
An unheard voice at the centre of every theatre performance in Cambodia
Lakhon Komnit ["Thinking Theatre"] Organization (LKO) is a Battambang-based grassroots theatre group, dedicated to the inclusion of unheard voices in the development of Cambodian theatre.
Enjoy this video sharing what we've been up to in 2022, and please consider making a donation to support our programs in 2023 if you are able to!
We prioritise Cambodia's most marginalised people
We work with people who face extreme discrimination, including: women facing violence, disabled people, people who identify as LGBTQ+, and those dealing with substance addiction.
Read about our recent work with survivors of domestic abuse in The Guardian Newspaper.
Inclusive programs for all ages
Our varied program creates opportunities for Cambodian people to create, perform, witness and participate in theatre:
Theatre for Empowerment: workshops for marginalised adults to express their challenges through theatre and create shows which they perform to their communities.
Theatre for Children: interactive shows for under 12s, using vibrant storytelling, design and performance techniques to ignite children’s imaginations and intellect.
Theatre for Problem Solving: bespoke topic-based Forum Theatre and Children's shows, addressing social and development issues in partnership with other organizations.
Theatre for Everyone (starting from 2023): ticketed performances for the general public at our intimate studio space.
Keeping Cambodian theatre alive
The art of Lakhon Niyeay - Cambodian spoken theatre - has always been politically sensitive. In the post-war reconstruction era, the art form has been considered economically unviable compared to non-linguistic forms which are easily marketed to tourist audiences.
At LKO, we believe in tackling difficult topics in sensitive and nuanced ways. We believe that international interests should neither dictate nor restrict Cambodian cultural expression. Cambodian people should have the right to lead, make, watch and enjoy theatre in their own language and about their own concerns.
In the whole of Cambodia today, there are just three theatre groups, of which LKO is the only one outside Phnom Penh.
Supporting people to talk and be heard: Forum Theatre
LKO's specialism is Forum Theatre, an interactive methodology which presents real-life challenges through theatrical performance. Our expert facilitators invite audience members to come up on-stage, take the place of the actors and try out their suggestions for how to make change.
Our events are always attended by a combination of community members, people facing specific challenges, local and provincial Government representatives, NGO staff, and the police. The lively discussions which ensue are rare in Cambodian society: the usually rigid rules about social hierarchy and avoiding taboo topics are suspended throughout the theatrical experience. People feel more able to speak, they are truly heard, connections are made and change becomes possible.
Connect with us and follow updates about our work:
Facebook: stay up-to-date with our latest projects and performances
Youtube: Watch videos of our plays and projects
Or write to us at lakhonkomnit@gmail.com for more info and to ask any questions!
Other ways to donate:
Taxpayers in the USA and Hong Kong can make tax deductible donations via the Give2Asia platform: www.give2asia.com/lakhonkomnit
People in Cambodia can donate directly by ABA Bank: 001 333 154 Lakhon Komnit Organization
