Phare Cambodian Circus Siem Reap | Tickets & Visitor Guide
Updated: 6 days ago
Experience an unforgettable evening of acrobatics, theatre, dance, live music and distinctly Cambodian storytelling under Phare’s iconic big top. Phare, The Cambodian Circus is more than an entertainment show. Its performers use contemporary circus arts to explore Cambodian history, folklore and modern life while creating professional opportunities for graduates of the Phare Ponleu Selpak arts school. Energetic, emotional and visually impressive, Phare is one of our recommended evening experiences for couples, families, groups and travellers looking for an alternative to Siem Reap’s conventional nightlife.
Experience at a Glance
Location: Ring Road near Sok San Road, Siem Reap
Distance from central Siem Reap: Approximately 2 kilometres from Old Market and Pub Street
Main showtime: 8:00 PM
Performance duration: Approximately one hour
Venue opening time: 5:30 PM
Ticket price: US$18–38 per adult
Children aged 5–11: US$10–18
Infants aged 4 and under: Free without an allocated seat
Best for: Families, couples, groups, culture and evening entertainment
Advance booking: Strongly recommended
More Than a Traditional Circus
Phare is not a conventional circus with animals, clowns and unrelated acts. Each production tells a story using a combination of:
Acrobatics
Theatre and character performance
Contemporary dance
Traditional cultural influences
Live Cambodian music
Juggling
Balance and aerial skills
Comedy
Visual art
Social storytelling
The performances are inspired by Cambodian history, folklore and present-day society. Depending on the production, the story may explore family, poverty, war, discrimination, relationships, urban life, ambition or supernatural beliefs.
There are no animals used in any Phare performance.
The History Behind Phare
The story began in 1994 when nine young Cambodian men returned to Battambang after spending time in a refugee camp following the Khmer Rouge period. While in the camp, they had participated in drawing classes and experienced art as a means of healing and expression. After returning home, they began offering free drawing lessons to disadvantaged and vulnerable young people.
Their work developed into Phare Ponleu Selpak, meaning approximately “The Brightness of the Arts.” The organisation expanded to provide education, community support and professional training in visual arts, theatre, music, dance and circus performance.
Phare Performing Social Enterprise was established in 2013 to:
Create professional employment for Cambodian artists
Develop sustainable income for the Phare Ponleu Selpak school
Revitalise Cambodia’s arts sector
Promote contemporary Cambodian culture locally and internationally
Phare, The Cambodian Circus opened in Siem Reap in February 2013. Its performers are students and graduates of the professional arts training centre in Battambang.
A Circus With a Social Purpose
Purchasing a ticket does more than provide an evening of entertainment. Phare Circus creates paid professional opportunities for Cambodian performers and helps support the education, arts training and community programmes of Phare Ponleu Selpak.
The organisation states that the majority of profits from its social enterprise support the non-profit school or are reinvested to maintain and develop its activities.
Guests can provide additional support by:
Purchasing official show tickets
Dining at Phare Café
Buying locally produced art and crafts from Phare Boutique
Donating through official channels
Sharing responsible photographs and recommendations
Respecting the artists and venue rules
Current Show Schedule
Regular Evening Performance
Venue opens: 5:30 PM
Big top opens for seating: 7:30 PM
Show begins: 8:00 PM
Show finishes: Approximately 9:00 PM
The performance lasts approximately one hour. It is followed by a short introduction to the Phare project and an opportunity to meet and take photographs with the artists.
Seasonal Matinee
Phare currently advertises an additional 5:00 PM performance on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays from November 2026 through March 2027.
Seasonal schedules may change, so guests should check the official Phare calendar for the production and showtime available on their preferred date.
Ticket Prices and Seating
The big top uses three principal seating categories.
Seating category | Adults aged 12+ | Children aged 5–11 | Seating arrangement |
Section A | US$38 | US$18 | Reserved seating in the front half of the centre section |
Section B | US$28 | US$15 | Open seating in the rear half of the centre section |
Section C | US$18 | US$10 | Open seating in the two side sections |
Children aged four and under enter free when they do not require an allocated seat.
Section A: Preferred Reserved Seating
Section A provides reserved seating in the front half of the central area and includes a locally made Phare Circus souvenir. The souvenir is not included with free infant tickets.
This is our recommended option for guests who want a central view and the convenience of an assigned place.
Section B: Preferred Open Seating
Section B offers open seating in the rear half of the central area. It provides a good overall view at a moderate price. Seats are not assigned, so arrive early for the best available position.
Section C: General Open Seating
Section C is the most affordable option and occupies the two side areas.
Some positions may have partially obstructed views because of support poles and subtitle screens. Arriving early is especially important for this category.
Prices and seating details were checked against Phare’s official ticket page in September 2026.
Which Ticket Should You Choose?
Best overall experience: Section AChoose this for reserved central seating, convenience and an included souvenir.
Best balance of price and view: Section BA good choice for most travellers who arrive early and want a central perspective.
Best budget option: Section CSuitable for price-conscious visitors who do not mind a side view or possible partial obstruction.
For popular dates, Sections A and B can sell out in advance. Early booking is strongly recommended.
Recommended Evening Itinerary
5:30–6:00 PM: Leave the Hotel
Depart from The Riverfront Central Hotel by tuk-tuk. Travel time depends on traffic and the confirmed pickup point.
6:00–7:00 PM: Dinner and Boutique
Arrive early to explore Phare Boutique and enjoy Cambodian food or refreshments at Phare Café.
The café serves drinks, snacks and meals. Dinner is not included with a standard show ticket unless you book a dining package.
7:00 PM: Pre-Show Entertainment
The venue may offer cultural entertainment before the main performance. The published evening programme currently includes a cultural dance performance at approximately 7:00 PM.
7:30 PM: Enter the Big Top
The doors open for seating. Section B and C ticket holders should arrive early because these areas use open seating.
8:00–9:00 PM: Circus Performance
Enjoy approximately one hour of acrobatics, theatre, music and Cambodian storytelling.
After the Show: Meet the Artists
Stay briefly after the performance for the project introduction and an opportunity to meet or photograph the performers.
Return to the Hotel
Meet your arranged tuk-tuk or use one of the independent drivers waiting near the venue.
How to Get There
Phare is located on Ring Road near its intersection with Sok San Road, approximately two kilometres from Old Market and Pub Street.
By Tuk-Tuk
A tuk-tuk is the easiest option for most visitors. Phare states that fares from many locations around Siem Reap generally range from US$3 to US$5 each way, but independent drivers set and negotiate their own prices. Agree on the total fare before departure and clarify whether the driver will wait or return after the show.
Hotel-Arranged Transfer
The Riverfront Central Hotel can help arrange a tuk-tuk or private vehicle and coordinate the return journey. Phare does not operate or arrange its own transportation service.
After the Performance
Independent tuk-tuk drivers are normally available in the parking area after the show. Guests who prefer certainty should arrange a return pickup in advance.
Food, Drinks and Shopping
The venue opens two hours before the regular evening performance.
Phare Café
The café offers Cambodian street-food favourites, drinks, snacks and meals. Selected dinner packages and group dining arrangements may also be available.
Standard show tickets do not automatically include food or drinks.
Vegetarian options are offered, and Phare advises guests with halal, gluten-free or other dietary requirements to submit their requests in advance.
Phare Boutique
The boutique features:
Original artwork
Circus souvenirs
Locally produced crafts
Products from Phare artists
Items made by Cambodian artisans and social enterprises
Purchasing through the official boutique provides another way to support Cambodian creative work.
Arrival and Check-In
Guests should check in at the ticket window at least 30 minutes before the performance.
For open seating in Section C, arriving approximately 45 minutes early can improve your seating choice.
At check-in:
Provide the booking name or confirmation number
Keep the booking confirmation accessible
Bring the payment card used for an online reservation if requested
Confirm the correct performance and seating category
Collect any applicable ticket or souvenir
For artist safety and the comfort of the audience, Phare does not permit entry after the performance has begun. Late arrival and no-show tickets are non-refundable.
Change and Cancellation Policy
Phare’s official standard-ticket terms currently state:
Changes and cancellations are permitted up to one day before the show date
Changes and cancellations are not permitted on the day of the show
No-shows are non-refundable
Late arrivals after the show begins are non-refundable
Terms can vary for special packages, third-party reservations, groups and promotional tickets. Check the conditions attached to your exact booking.
Is Phare Suitable for Children?
Phare is generally family-friendly and welcomes children.
However, it is an artistic Cambodian production rather than a light children’s circus. Depending on the scheduled show, themes may include:
War or difficult history
Poverty
Discrimination
Family relationships
Social conflict
Ghosts or supernatural beliefs
Parents should check the description of the scheduled production before purchasing tickets.
The performance includes energetic movement, live music, theatrical lighting and moments of tension. Young children who are sensitive to loud sounds or darkness may require preparation.
Infants aged four and under enter free without their own allocated seat.
Accessibility and Special Requirements
Guests with mobility, sensory or medical requirements should contact Phare or the hotel before booking.
Ask about:
Step-free entrance
Wheelchair seating
Accessible toilets
Companion seating
Suitable drop-off points
Assistance entering the big top
Strobe or theatrical lighting
Loud music and sudden sounds
Seating close to an exit
The venue is cooled with air conditioning, evaporative cooling and fans, but it remains part of a tropical outdoor environment. Lightweight clothing is recommended.
What to Wear and Bring
There is no formal dress code. Wear comfortable clothing suitable for Siem Reap’s warm climate.
Consider bringing:
Electronic or printed ticket confirmation
Payment card used for the booking
Lightweight clothing
Mosquito repellent
Small amount of cash
Camera or phone
Light rain protection during the wet season
A quiet comfort item or ear protection for sound-sensitive children
Large bags should be avoided whenever possible because seating space is limited.
Photography and Video Rules
Photography and short videos are permitted during the performance, but flash must always be turned off. Flash can distract performers and create a safety risk during acrobatic routines.
Phare welcomes the sharing of short videos of less than three minutes on social media.
Responsible photography rules:
Disable flash before the show
Reduce screen brightness
Keep the camera below other guests’ sightlines
Do not stand or block aisles
Avoid continuous filming
Do not use additional lighting
Follow all staff instructions
Ask performers before taking close personal photographs after the show
Enjoy the performance directly rather than watching the entire production through a screen.
Audience Code of Conduct
To protect the performers and ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone:
Arrive before the performance starts
Sit only in your assigned section
Keep aisles and emergency exits clear
Switch phones to silent mode
Never use flash photography
Avoid loud conversation during the show
Supervise children
Do not enter the performance area
Never touch equipment or props
Follow staff safety instructions
Do not attend while behaving disruptively because of alcohol
Treat performers and staff respectfully
The artists perform demanding and potentially dangerous routines. Audience cooperation is essential.
Responsible Tourism
Phare is a recognised Cambodian social enterprise. Ticket revenue supports professional employment for artists and contributes to educational and social programmes.
For the most direct impact:
Purchase authorised tickets
Avoid unofficial ticket resellers
Buy products from the official boutique
Learn about the organisation’s social mission
Respect the performers’ intellectual and creative work
Avoid uploading long recordings of complete routines
Make donations only through verified Phare channels
Attending the performance supports Cambodian creativity without intrusive community visits or staged interactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the show?
The main performance lasts approximately one hour, followed by a brief project introduction and an opportunity to meet the artists.
What time should I arrive?
Arrive at least 30 minutes before showtime. For Section C open seating, approximately 45 minutes early is advisable.
Is Phare performed every night?
Phare currently advertises modern circus performances nightly, but the calendar can change. Check the official schedule before booking.
Is the show in English?
The performance relies heavily on physical theatre, music and visual storytelling. Subtitle screens may be used when dialogue requires translation.
Are animals used?
No. Phare does not use animals in its performances.
Can I take photographs?
Yes, but flash must remain off. Short videos are permitted according to Phare’s published guidance.
Is dinner included?
Not with a standard ticket. Food and drinks can be purchased at Phare Café, or a separate dining package may be booked.
Is transportation included?
No. Standard Phare tickets do not include transportation. The Riverfront Central Hotel can help arrange a tuk-tuk or private vehicle.
Can I buy tickets on arrival?
Walk-in tickets may be available, but advance reservations are strongly recommended because the big top frequently fills and central sections can sell out.
What happens if I arrive late?
Entry is not permitted after the performance begins. Late-arrival tickets are non-refundable.
Is the show suitable for young children?
It is generally family-friendly, but certain productions contain serious social or historical themes. Parents should review the current show description.
Our Recommendation
We recommend Section B for most guests because it offers a central view at a moderate price.
Choose Section A for the most comfortable experience, reserved seating and an included souvenir. Select Section C only when budget is the priority and you are comfortable with a side view or possible obstruction.
Arrive at approximately 6:30–7:00 PM to enjoy dinner, browse the boutique and settle in without rushing.
Book Phare Circus with The Riverfront Central Hotel
Let our team help you check the performance calendar, reserve your preferred seating category and arrange transportation.
When making your enquiry, please provide:
Preferred show date
Number of adults
Number and ages of children
Preferred seating section
Dinner or standard-ticket preference
Transportation requirements
Accessibility or special seating needs
Telephone: +855 85 812 588 | +855 10 381 258
Telegram: 085 812 588
WhatsApp: +855 10 381 258
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