Wonders of Southeast Asia - A Great Success!

November 24, 2024, Benaroya Hall, Seattle, WA

Images at the event, click on the following links:

1. Album One - Click Here!

2. Album Two - Click Here!

Asia Pacific Cultural Center reached an incredible milestone this year by hosting its first-ever performance at Seattle’s iconic Benaroya Hall. Wonders of Southeast Asia was a resounding success, captivating the audience with a vibrant celebration of cultural heritage through music, dance, and traditional attire.

Nearly filling the 500-seat venue, the evening’s performances immersed attendees in the vibrant cultures of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, celebrating the rich traditions of these Southeast Asian nations. The atmosphere was further enhanced by attendees dressed in stunning cultural attire, turning the event into a colorful, visually captivating, and family-friendly celebration.

Vietnam’s Musical Elegance

The evening began with Vietnam’s Huong Viet Performing Arts Group. Their performances highlighted the beauty of Vietnamese culture through traditional instruments and vibrant costumes. The group delivered four breathtaking songs:

1. Conical Leaf Hat and Fate

2. Chant by Ngu River

3. The Crane (North Vietnam Folksong)

4. I Will Follow Him

Cambodia: The Kingdom of Wonder

Next, the spotlight turned to Cambodia with performances by three exceptional groups:

1. Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts – Visiting from Cambodia

2. Cambodian Classical and Folk Dance of the Northwest

3. Khmer Language Arts and Culture Academy

Their presentation, titled The Kingdom of Wonder, highlighted Cambodia’s Royal Ballet, one of the nation’s oldest and most revered art forms. With its intricate hand movements, graceful choreography, and elaborate costumes, the Royal Ballet offered a glimpse into the sacred traditions rooted in the Khmer imperial court.

Thailand: A Grand Finale

The night concluded with Thailand’s mesmerizing performances by two groups:

1. Thai Performing Arts Department at Naresuan University – Visiting from Thailand

2. Ban Rabum Thai Classical Dance Troupe

Their four-act showcase celebrated Thai culture with grace and energy:

1. Sud Chartree

2. Kritdapinihan

3. Hanuman and Benjagye

4. Thai Culture Bonds

Each act reflected Thailand’s deep cultural heritage, leaving the audience in awe of the performers’ skill and dedication.

Gratitude and Recognition

APCC extends its heartfelt gratitude to the sponsors, board members, staff, cultural coordinators, volunteers, and community members from each country who made this extraordinary event possible. Special thanks go to the Benaroya Hall team for their patience, expertise, and support throughout the planning and execution of the event.

This enchanting evening was made possible by the Seattle Symphony’s Community Stages Fund, which recognized APCC as one of its 2024 grant recipients. The event represents APCC’s ongoing mission to foster cultural understanding and appreciation through artistic expression.

Looking Ahead

Wonders of Southeast Asia marks a significant chapter in APCC’s history and sets the stage for future cultural showcases in the Seattle area. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this unforgettable night. We look forward to welcoming you to more events celebrating the rich diversity of the 47 countries and cultures that APCC represents.