| Royal Academy of Performing Arts | |
| Abbreviation: | RAPA |
| Type: | Government body |
| Status: | Active |
| Purpose: | Cultural preservation and promotion |
| Location: | Thimphu, Bhutan |
| Region Served: | Bhutan |
| Language: | Dzongkha, other languages of Bhutan |
| Leader Title: | Director |
| Leader Name: | Rinzin Penjore |
| Parent Organization: | Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs |
| Affiliations: | Government of Bhutan |
The Royal Academy of Performing Arts (RAPA) is a Bhutanese government body within the Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs, Department of Culture,[1] that supports the preservation of traditional Bhutanese culture.[2] [3] It was founded in 1954[4] under the initiative of the Third Druk Gyalpo Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. In 1967, it was institutionalised as an academy and the Royal Dance troupe was its creation.[5] The Academy is located in Thimphu, along Chhophel Lam.[6]
The Academy trains young dancers and musicians in both religious and secular folk music and dance.[7] The Academy also documents and performs live songs and dances from Bhutan's many diverse regions – from modern rigsar to centuries-old genres – and publishes its collections.[8]
The professional dancers of the Academy hold performances during the annual Thimphu Tsechu dance festival held at Tashichho Dzong. Throughout the year, its members give one-hour performances for guests and tour groups on request.[5] [7] [9] The Academy also hosts public dance practices ahead of major events, such as the 2011 royal wedding,[10] and performs abroad.[11]
Leaders of the Academy further participate in international private nonprofit organizations promoting and preserving traditional Bhutanese music and culture.[12] [13]