After ten years of preparation and execution, Tinh Hoa Bắc Bộ proudly stands as the first real-life stage performance in Vietnam, affirming its status as a must-see cultural show whenever visitors set foot in Hanoi. Traditional folk elements are presented in a modern and creative style, offering the audience a special and memorable experience of the Red River Delta region—the cultural center of northern Vietnam at that time.

Poetry

“Inspired by the verses of the poem ‘Thu Điếu’ by Nguyễn Khuyến, the folk song ‘Tát nước đầu đình,’ and lullabies from northern Vietnam, the first scene unfolds a gentle and familiar Vietnamese village setting. The sight of young women by the lotus pond and the playful banter between young men and women enlivens and distinguishes the opening. The villagers’ life is also closely linked with lively communal work sessions, depicted through the spirited fishermen on the river. Northern Vietnam lullabies are an indispensable beauty of folk culture, illustrated by the diligent mother and her lilting lullabies by the cradle. This scene concludes the first part of the performance.”

The Realm of Buddha

This scene focuses on the revered monk Từ Đạo Hạnh, the founder of Chùa Thầy. Folk tradition refers to him as “Thầy” because legend has it that before becoming a monk, he was a healer who treated the poor without taking payment. He also taught people farming methods and traditional folk games, notably water puppetry, which has become a vibrant aspect of Vietnamese cultural art. The scene with the mystical appearance of the venerable monk amidst a shimmering lotus garden leaves an indelible impression. The scene concludes with dragonflies dancing, depicted through LED and laser effects harmonized with a contemporary rendition of the smooth folk song Quan họ “Se chỉ luồn kim.”Nostalgia This scene reminisces about the ancient Thăng Long Citadel, beginning with the image of scholars journeying with their belongings to the imperial examinations. A portion of the old Vietnamese exam setting is recreated on a vast water stage over 4,300 square meters. The tradition of valuing education and practicing both literature and martial arts is depicted against a backdrop of heroic music combined with modern lighting. This scene helps viewers gain a deeper understanding of history and the proud traditions of the Vietnamese people.

Maybe you are interested: https://ninhbinhtransportation.com/discover-hoa-lu-ancient-town-a-cultural-gem-in-ninh-binh/

Music and Painting

Inspired by the poem “Tranh Tố Nữ” by the poet Hồ Xuân Hương, this scene features four ethereal traditional female portraits appearing on a dark lake surface. Utilizing 3D Mapping effects, the most lifelike images are created on the watery stage. Four women are depicted playing different traditional Vietnamese musical instruments: the flute (Sáo), the pear-shaped lute (đàn tỳ bà), the two-stringed fiddle (đàn nhị), and the moon lute (đàn nguyệt). This is the most beautiful scene as the celestial maidens gracefully dance across the water while highlighting the essence of Northern Vietnamese folk painting traditions.

Nostalgia

This scene reminisces about the ancient Thăng Long Citadel, beginning with the image of scholars journeying with their belongings to the imperial examinations. A portion of the old Vietnamese exam setting is recreated on a vast water stage over 4,300 square meters. The tradition of valuing education and practicing both literature and martial arts is depicted against a backdrop of heroic music combined with modern lighting. This scene helps viewers gain a deeper understanding of history and the proud traditions of the Vietnamese people.

Idea

With the aspiration to promote the quintessential culture of Northern Vietnam through the language of art, “Quintessence of Tonkin” is a show that combines fascinating elements. It features a cast of local villagers, a large-scale props system, state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, and a unique water stage nestled against Thay Mountain. This promises to deliver an emotional and uplifting experience for the audience.

As the first “real-life” performance of its kind

In addition to honoring the history of the Northern Delta and preserving the cultural heritage of water puppetry in its birthplace, “Quintessence of Tonkin” offers an emotional portrayal of the interplay between religion and monarchy. The performance infuses a sense of romance, acting as a refreshing and invigorating breath for the national entertainment scene. The entire show is performed on water, and all the farmers participating in the performance at Sai Son, Thay Pagoda, underwent two years of training to bring an unforgettable piece of art to life. To create a “memorable” spectacle, a pavilion was meticulously constructed to replicate the Water Pavilion of Thay Pagoda at a 1:1 scale, combined with a magical lake and familiar village bamboo groves. Even the misty image of Thay Mountain in the distance is incorporated into the show.

Performing Artists

There are two groups of performers in “Quintessence of Tonkin”: one consists of local farmers from Sai Son, and the other includes students from the Vietnam Dance College. Through meticulous training, combined with their artistic abilities and inherent passion and love for this land, the farmers have transformed into genuine artists on stage. Additionally, the students from the Vietnam Dance College have brought a fresh, youthful breeze full of vitality and youthful enthusiasm to the show. Together, they have created a vibrant and captivating performance for the audience.

Stage

The stage for “Quintessence of Tonkin” is set in the serene Sai Son area of Quoc Oai District, 23 kilometers west of central Hanoi. The performance draws inspiration from the legend of Zen Master Tu Dao Hanh during his time at Thay Pagoda—one of Vietnam’s most ancient pagodas—and intertwines essential cultural elements of the Northern Delta region.

With over 250 performers showcasing on a water stage spanning 4,300 square meters, the show presents unique and creative displays of Vietnamese culture, such as water puppetry and Quan Ho folk singing. The expansive, aquatic setting offers a breathtaking platform for these traditional art forms, making the performance both a visual and auditory delight.

Tickets for the “Quintessence of Tonkin” show are priced differently for children and adults:

  • For children: ticket prices range from 200,000 to 400,000 VND.
  • For adults: ticket prices range from 400,000 to 800,000 VND.

These prices may vary depending on the seating location and ticket type you choose.

Maybe you are interested:https://halongtransportation.com/the-harmony-of-halongbay-and-sapa-a-journey-through-vietnams-natural-wonders/

Traveling from Ha Long to Experience the Quintessence of Tonkin Show in Hanoi

For those planning to journey from Ha Long to enjoy the captivating “Quintessence of Tonkin” show in Da Phuc Hamlet, Quoc Oai, Hanoi, various transportation options are available. You can opt for a private car, offering you the comfort and flexibility to explore the scenic route at your own pace. Consider booking your ride through Halongtransportation.com for a convenient travel experience. Alternatively, regular buses and shuttle services provide budget-friendly and reliable ways to commute between Ha Long and Hanoi. Whichever mode you choose, ensure you plan accordingly to arrive relaxed and on time to witness the cultural spectacle in Hanoi.

Maybe you are interested: https://halongtransportation.com

Categories: OUR TIPS