The world-famous Thang Long
Water Puppettry in
Hanoi has its roots in an art form that dates back to the 11th century. The
tradition of water puppet theatre stems from a time when rice paddy fields were
flooded and villagers would make entertainment by standing in the waist-deep
water with the puppets performing over the water.
Using large rods to support the puppets it appeared as if they were moving
across the water with the puppeteers hidden behind a screen.
This tradition is unique to
North Vietnam but has recently found fame on stages
all over the world; so it’s a rare treat to see the puppets perform in their
original location at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. Performances are
accompanied by a Vietnamese orchestra playing traditional music using drums,
wooden bells, horns, bamboo flutes and cymbals. There are also authentic
Vietnamese operatic songs telling the story that is being acted out by the
puppets. Most of the shows recount Vietnamese folk tales and legends with topics
including the celebration of the rice harvest depicted in a humorous fashion.
Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre is one of the most popular
tourist attractions
in Hanoi with tickets selling out well in advance so it’s worth booking yours as
soon as you arrive in town. It is also advisable to pay more to get closer to
the action as the theatre seats a few hundred people and the puppets are not
that big. The theatre is modern and usually shows 17 short sketches over a
one-hour performance.
Opening Hours: Shows during the day and evening at 14:00 and 20:00
Location: North east of
Hoan Kiem lake at 57b Dinh Tien Hoang Street
Remarks: There is an additional camera or video fee if you wish to photograph or
film the show
Water Puppet Theatre Highlights
Shows at this modern theatre are performed in a pool of water as the stage for
the puppets. The puppets are controlled by no more than eight puppeteers hiding
behind a bamboo screen. The renowned Thang Long Water Puppet show is considered
to be one of the cultural highlights of Northern
Vietnam dating back to a
tradition that first started in the Red River Delta.
Today’s performances usually include a number of short sketches rather than one
long story, taking the audience on a journey of ancient village life,
agricultural harvests and dances of mythical creatures. Most shows also feature
the famous Legend of the Restored Sword of King Le which tells the tale of Hoan
Kiem Lake and the giant tortoise. The live music plays an integral part of the
show with singers often shouting words of encouragement to the puppets.