LifeCircus shows temple tourists another side of Cambodia
Creative training offers an alternative lifestyle for young performers
A dancer appears behind a screen during a show in Siem Reap. (Photo by Tom Vater)
LAURE SIEGEL and TOM VATER, Contributing writers
SIEM REAP, Cambodia -- It is a stiflingly hot Friday evening in Siem Reap, western Cambodia. The big top is packed, and there is an air of excitement as 300 or so spectators squeeze onto narrow wooden benches. Backstage, the artists are getting ready.