University of Hawai'i University Relations Media & Publications Honolulu, HI 96822	(808) 956-8856 Telephone (808) 956-3441 Facsimile ur@hawaii.edu E-Mail
Media Advisory	April 29, 1998
Contact: John Southworth, 956-6871

The Khmer New Year will be celebrated with demonstrations of traditional song, dance, fashions and games on Saturday, May 2 in the University of Hawai'i Lab School Multipurpose Building as a community venture by the Curriculum Research and Development Group/UH Lab School. Highlights include:   9 am Buddhist Prayer and Chanting for blessings on the upcoming Khmer New Year   Open House 1­3 pm Cyber-trip to Cambodia via Internet, College of Education Computer Lab. Coordinated by: Khmer Language/Culture Maintenance Staff, President's Diversity and Equity Initiative Program and Teleclass International Inc.   Khmer New Year Party 5 pm Traditional music as guests arrive and introductory remarks by Leakhena Nou, Chanthoeun To and Savouth Chea 5:30 pm The Blessing Dance performed by Ms. Naran Conway to start off the Khmer New Year, symbolizing best wishes, good health, and peace for mankind. Historical overview and meaning of the Khmer New Year by Seiha Hul, graduate student Khmer children's songs by students of the Khmer Language/Culture Maintenance program/President's Diversity and Equity Initiative Program/Teleclass International Inc. and Naran Conway Dinner provided by CSAloha & Cambodian Community of Hawai'i 7:40 pm Poetry reading by Naran Conway and Sovann Souy 8 pm Fashion Show of traditional outfits of specific regions and ceremonial occasions 8:30 Traditional game demonstration, including a popular game usually played during the Khmer New Year celebration Modern Khmer dances: Rom Voung, Rom Kbach, Saravann, Lumg Le-av, and Talung 9 pm Closing remarks and dancing for everyone until 10 pm

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