Performing Arts in Vietnam - Water Puppetry

Háttuồng

Háttuồng, also called hátbội, was introduced to Vietnam from China in the 13th century. Hence, it is strikingly similar to Chinese opera. Originally performed in the royal courts, it is now performed by travelling troupes to farmers and ordinary citizens, featuring many well-known characters.

Hátchèo

On the other hand, Hátchèo is a form of satirical musical theatre originating in northern Vietnam. It was traditionally performed by Vietnamese peasants in semi-amateur touring groups, who would typically perform in open courtyards in the villages.

Unlike other theatrical forms suited for royal court, Hátchèo uses less props, costumes and make-up. The message of the performances often criticizes the existing social order. Today it is increasingly also performed indoors, by professional performers.

Cảilương

Cảilương is a form of modern folk opera with both contemporary and historical themes. The performance is characterized by its singing, which uses a great deal of vibrato.

It is accompanied by the Vietnamese traditional chamber music, nhạctàitử. While it is still comparatively more popular than Háttuồng and Hátchèo, its popularity has declined since the 1970s and 1980s, especially amongst the younger generation.

Water Puppetry

Water puppetry, called Múarốinước in Vietnamese, is a distinctly Vietnamese form of art, originating from the villages of the Red River Delta in Vietnam. Traditionally, performances would take place on top of flooded rice paddies.

The puppets are made of wood, and attached to wooden rods which are used by the puppeteers to manipulate the puppets. The puppeteers stand waist-deep in the water behind a bamboo screen, so that the audience can only see the puppets moving, but do not see the puppeteers.

While this art almost died out before it was revived in 1984, it is now a popular entertainment for tourists, seeking to enjoy a uniquely Vietnamese experience.

Imperial Court Dance

There are a variety of imperial court dances which originated in the Tran and Nguyen dynasties. The dancers usually wear extravagant costumes. Now these dances are performed at festivals or on other special occasions.

Some of the better-known dances include: fan dance, lotus dance, lantern dance, and many others. These dances are accompanied by imperial court music called nhãnhạc.

Lion Dance

The lion dance originated in China and is commonly performed in Vietnam during the Lunar New Year. It is the symbolism for warding off evil spirits. The dance often incorporates martial arts and acrobatics.

Nhãnhạc

Nhãnhạc is a genre of imperial court music that is performed along with imperial court dances. This genre of music is recognized by UNESCO as 'Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.'

Quanhọ

Quanho is a genre of Vietnamese folk singing, characterized by alternating male and female singers. Most songs have a sentimental feel and deal with topics of love.

Ca trù

Ca trù is an ancient genre of chamber music with a female singer. It used to be likened to geisha-form of entertainment, as it was used to entertain wealthy people. In 2009, Ca trù was considered by UNESCO as an 'Intangible Cultural Heritage' in need of urgent safeguarding.