Final answer:
Classical Cambodian Court dance was nearly extinguished during the Khmer Rouge regime, as traditional arts were suppressed and artists persecuted. After the fall of the regime, efforts to revive the dance form began, leading to a resurgence and renewed appreciation as part of Cambodia's cultural identity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The late 20th century was a challenging period for Classical Cambodian Court dance, also known as Robam Preah Reach Trop, as Cambodia experienced significant turmoil. The Khmer Rouge regime, led by Pol Pot, actively suppressed traditional arts and culture during its rule from 1975 to 1979, deeming them incompatible with the regime's agrarian socialist ideals. Dancers, musicians, and teachers were among the millions who suffered or were killed during this genocide. The traditional dance barely survived this dark period, and many art forms were lost or pushed to the brink of extinction.
Following the fall of the Khmer Rouge, a slow recovery process began. The late 80s and 90s saw efforts to revive traditional Cambodian arts, including Classical Court dance. Surviving master dancers and musicians began to reconstruct and teach the ancient art form, piecing together the remnants from memory and the few resources that were left. As Cambodia opened up to the world and began to integrate into the international community, tourism and international assistance played crucial roles in supporting the rebirth of this vital cultural heritage.
Today, Classical Cambodian Court dance has experienced a resurgence and is recognized as an important part of Cambodia's cultural identity. The revitalization has been crucial not only for cultural preservation but also as a symbol of the country's resilience and capacity to heal from its tragic past.