There has been a recent resurgence of interest in traditional art forms among the younger generation in Vietnam. With artists investing more in their performances, scripts, and overall production, these art forms are attracting large audiences and creating new entertainment experiences for the future.
Water Puppetry
Originating in the rice paddies of Northern Vietnam over 1,000 years ago, water puppetry is a unique art form native to the country. It reflects the deep-rooted traditions, beliefs, and history of the Vietnamese people.
Water puppetry involves a stage of water, with puppets manipulated by skilled artists hidden behind a bamboo curtain. Using a system of rods, strings, and pulleys, the puppeteers create lively movements, bringing the intricately carved and colorfully painted wooden puppets to life. It’s like magic, creating an enchanting world right before the audience’s eyes.
The appeal of water puppetry lies not only in the charming puppets but also in the stories they tell. Each performance retells familiar folk tales, such as “Thach Sanh,” “Tam Cam,” and legends about national heroes. The intricate movements and careful manipulation of the puppets by the artists bring these stories to life in a captivating manner.
Water puppetry is also accompanied by traditional music, including “cheo” (a form of Vietnamese opera), drums, and instruments like the “dan bau” and “dan nhi.” This blend of art forms creates a vibrant and folk-inspired atmosphere, enhancing the overall experience.
Water puppetry reflects the spiritual life of the Vietnamese people, with sacred characters that symbolize peace and well-being.
Today, there are several renowned water puppet theaters in Vietnam, such as the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi, located by Ho Guom, and the Vietnam Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi’s Thanh Xuan district. These theaters regularly host performances for locals and tourists alike.
In Ho Chi Minh City, visitors can enjoy water puppet shows at the Phuong Nam Art Theatre or the Rong Vang (Golden Dragon) Water Puppet Theatre, both of which offer elaborately staged performances.
Circus
The recent performance of “The Mysterious Land” at the Gia Dinh Park Circus has captivated young audiences and sparked a frenzy on social media. With a story centered around a drought-stricken land and the quest for the five elemental stones to summon rain, the show takes the audience on a journey full of surprises and stunning visuals.
Word-of-mouth and social media posts by early viewers have created a buzz, piquing the curiosity of the public. The breathtaking visuals and creative storytelling of “The Mysterious Land” have drawn audiences in droves, eager to experience the spectacle for themselves.
“The Mysterious Land” has captivated audiences with its stunning visuals and creative storytelling.
Circus arts are a blend of acrobatics, strength, and emotional storytelling. From daring acrobatics and juggling to animal acts, the circus offers something for everyone, regardless of age. It’s an ideal activity for families and friends to bond, sharing laughter and excitement.
By attending circus performances, you not only enjoy a unique form of entertainment but also contribute to the preservation and development of this art form. Notable circus venues in Vietnam include the Central Circus in Hanoi and the Gia Dinh Park Circus in Ho Chi Minh City.
Theater
In recent years, theater has experienced a strong revival, becoming one of the most popular art forms in Vietnam. People of all ages flock to theaters during evenings and weekends to immerse themselves in emotional, humorous, and thought-provoking plays.
Plays like this one transport viewers back to their childhood.
A telling sign of the theater’s growth is the frequent “sold-out” shows at major venues. Tickets for performances by renowned troupes like Idecaf, The World of Youth (in Ho Chi Minh City), and the Youth Theater (in Hanoi) often sell out quickly, sometimes even a week in advance. This demonstrates the increasing demand for theatrical experiences, even in an age dominated by digital entertainment.
“Once Upon a Time,” with its 35 installments, is one of the most sought-after plays in Ho Chi Minh City, with over 10,000 tickets sold in just 15 minutes.
Theater has shed its image of being solely for older generations, as young people are now the most enthusiastic supporters. This shift can be attributed to the modernization of plays, incorporating humor and addressing societal issues with subtle yet powerful messages. The blend of entertainment and thought-provoking themes has made theater a beloved art form once again.
The resurgence of these art forms, including water puppetry, circus, and theater, showcases the enduring appeal of traditional performing arts. They not only provide entertainment but also impart cultural and educational values, contributing to a rich and diverse artistic landscape in Vietnam.
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