Tay Ninh, Aug. 30 -- Once at risk of falling into oblivion, Chan dance - a centuries-old masked performance of the Khmer people - has been revived in the southern province of Tay Ninh, where monks, artisans, and young performers are working together to preserve the art form as a cultural treasure and a potential tourism draw.

Chan dance, or Ro Bam Yeak Rom dance, is always featured at major Khmer festivals such as Chol Chnam Thmay (New Year), Sene Dolta (ancestor worship), and Ooc Om Bok (moon offering).

Monk Kien So Phat, the abbot of Botum Kiri Rangsay Pagoda in Binh Minh ward, emphasised that rapid social and cultural changes have long posed a threat to traditional performing arts. In the past, pagoda and village festivities often fe...