Disabled Cambodian dance group to perform at Eden venue

The Epic Encounters modern dance troupe, from Cambodia, will be performing at Maulds Meaburn Village Institute (MMVI) on December 6, as part of a UK-wide tour.

“This is certainly an epic event for us and a one-off opportunity for local people to see a completely different take on modern dance by an inspiring group of young people,” said John Wood, chair of the MMVI committee.

There will be just 80 tickets on sale for the event, with all proceeds going to Epic Arts, the UK-based charity that runs an inclusive arts centre in Cambodia, where the dance team are based.

The tour aims to spread the word about the charity’s work and promote inclusive arts, as well as giving the dancers the experience of a lifetime while raising much-needed funds.

The Maulds Meaburn event came about thanks to former residents of the village, Julie and Alan Scott, whose daughter, Laura Evans, has been managing the Epic Arts centre in Cambodia for the past year and a half, with her husband Anthony.

“Life is incredibly difficult for people with disabilities in Cambodia, as in many developing countries,” said Julie, who has been to see her daughter’s work first hand.

“They are often rejected by their communities and written off as having no part to play in society.

"Cambodia has particular challenges, with disabilities caused by polio, a basic lack of access to antibiotics and landmines left behind after years of war and dictatorship.”

now on sale and will include a Cambodian supper.

They can be booked on 01931-715509.

Photos 1 -3: Dancers from the Epic Encounters group which will perform at Maulds Meaburn Village Institute on 6 December.

Photo 4: Laura Evans, whose parents live in Ormside, and her husband Anthony on their daily commute to the Epic Arts Centre in Cambodia, which they manage.

Photo 5: Laura Evans, whose parents live in Ormside, and her husband Anthony, at work in Cambodia as managers at the Epic Arts Centre in Kampot.

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