The Quintessence of Tonkin

Visit: The Quintessence of Tonkin, Da Phuc village, Sai Son commune, Quoc Oai district, Hanoi 100000 Vietnam

orn from an artistic vision to tell the story of the cultural highlights of Northern Vietnam, the show skillfully blends real life performers, delightful water puppetry, a stunning light show, an evocative soundtrack and the mountains of Chua Thay into a jaw-dropping extravaganza that tugs on the heart strings. It is a rustic, artistic demonstration of Vietnamese culture: poetry, Buddhism, nostalgia, music and painting, joy and festivals.

Drawing on the daily life and activities of the people of the northern delta, and including the art of water puppetry in the story, the audience witnesses the story of monk, Tu Dao Hanh and his journey to Thang Long Royal Palace. At the same time, the story showcases the talents of the Vietnamese people, who excel in knowledge and martial arts. A traditional village is the setting and traditional instruments and vocal arts such as ca trù, quan họ, chầu văn are included in the program.

The Quintessence of Tonkin performers comprise two troupes: the farmers and junior and senior dance students. Local farmers and their families from the Quoc Oai area in Sai Son, are the focus of the extravaganza, which is performed on water. While not professionally trained, the farmers are passionate performers. The dance students who have been trained bring youth, vitality and vibrance to the show. Together, the farmers and dance students bring the show to life in a compelling visual performance.