CIR Lifestyle
NagaWorld, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts (MoCFA) and UNESCO, unveiled “Shadows Beyond Time,” an initiative celebrating Sbek Thom’s 1,000-year legacy and the 20th anniversary of its inscription on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list.
The launch event at NagaWorld1 was officiated by His Excellency Hab Touch, Permanent Secretary of State, MoCFA, with Mr Pern Chen, Managing Director-CEO Cabinet of NagaWorld, and Ms Gabrielle Thiboutot, Officer-in-Charge of the UNESCO Phnom Penh Office.
“On behalf of Her Excellency Dr Phoeurng Sackona, Minister of Culture and Fine Arts, I express heartfelt congratulations and deep appreciation to NagaWorld for its continuous support and commitment to promoting Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage,” said H.E. Hab Touch. “Through initiatives like this, from shadow puppet workshops to traditional performances and cultural showcases, we ensure that these timeless traditions are passed on to new generations.”
Power Of Partnership and Cultural Renewal
For NagaWorld, this first-ever public-private initiative since Sbek Thom’s inscription symbolises the power of partnership and cultural renewal. “We believe arts and culture are the foundation of any thriving society. They connect us to our history, shape our national identity, and stimulate creative industries that generate both cultural and economic value,” said Mr Pern Chen. “As a longtime patron of the local arts, we are committed to nurturing creative talent and preserving the cultural heritage that makes Cambodia unique.”
Nearly lost during the Khmer Rouge era, Sbek Thom was inscribed by UNESCO in 2005 for its outstanding cultural value. The tradition survived through the dedication of master puppeteers and apprentices, including the Sovanna Phum Art Association, founded in 1994 by master puppeteer Mann Kosal. Although COVID‑19 severely disrupted the association’s work and led to the closure of its theatre, NagaWorld has helped revive the art through performances, workshops, and outreach activities.
“My sincere appreciation goes to NagaWorld for these intensive efforts, in close collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts and UNESCO Phnom Penh Office, in curating content and panels for this wonderful exhibition,” said Ms Gabrielle Thiboutot. She reaffirmed UNESCO’s commitment to continue supporting the Royal Government of Cambodia in promoting education, science, and preserving the nation’s rich tangible and intangible cultural heritage, in close collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts and other relevant partners.
Running through 30 November on the Ground Floor of NagaWorld1, “Shadows Beyond Time” invites locals and international visitors to experience Cambodia’s sacred shadow theatre through a curated exhibition, live performance, and digital experiences. The programme culminates on 28 November with a special Sbek Thom performance at the NABA Theatre, NagaWorld2, featuring master artists from the Sovanna Phum Art Association and the Department of Performing Arts, accompanied by a live Pinpeat orchestra.
Throughout the month, NagaWorld will host weekly hands‑on workshops, where participants can learn traditional puppet carving and take home handcrafted souvenirs. The exhibition also includes a Khmer costume experience and curated Khmer merchandise, featuring artisanal crafts, T‑shirts, and mementos. All proceeds from workshops and costume experiences will directly benefit the Sovanna Phum Art Association, helping sustain the livelihoods of master practitioners.
Bridging cultural heritage and innovation, the programme also features a smartphone augmented reality (AR) filter inspired by Sbek Thom. Visitors can engage with the art form through interactive digital elements, extending the experience beyond the gallery.
Experience Cambodia’s shadow theatre this November — see the light, feel the rhythm, and walk with the stories that travel through time. Admission is open to all.
Programme Highlights:
● Exhibition: Through 30 November 2025, 10am to
7pm, Ground Floor, NagaWorld1
● Workshops: Weekly hands-on shadow puppet-
making
● Special performance: 28 November 2025, 5:00pm, NABA Theatre,
NagaWorld2
(Free performance tickets available from 20 November at the NagaWorld Rewards Counter, NagaWorld2 Lobby)
