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In its musical theaters and diverse nightlife, Hanoi’s cultural allure comes alive when the sun goes down. Productions showcasing traditional music and theater are a great way to delve into the spirit of Vietnam. With the multimillion-dollar restoration of the Opera House in the late 1990s, Hanoi's performing-arts scene reemerged. The imposing French-built arts palace hosts Vietnam's top traditional musicians and pop stars as well as the occasional Western performer. Elsewhere in the city, you can catch a performance of Vietnamese folk opera, traditional music, or enchanting water puppetry. If you want a peek at the results of years of Eastern European physical training, head to the circus at the northern edge of Lenin Park for Vietnam's version of the Cirque du Soleil.
This popular cultural show encompasses a wide variety of traditional Vietnamese folk and dance forms. Shows take place every Thursday evening at 8 pm and take audiences on a journey across the country from the steamy southern delta to the mountainous north with its minority tribe traditions. Expect colorful costumes and enthusiastic performers.
Hanoi Opera House, whose Vietnamese name translates into "House Sing Big," is worth a visit no matter what happens to be showing. This beautifully restored French building hosts regular classical music concerts, ballets, and Western and Vietnamese operas, plus a variety of singers. Check out the venue's website for details on upcoming shows, or purchase tickets at www.luneproduction.com
As one of Hanoi's top tourist attractions, this entertaining performance gives you insight into Vietnam's history and traditions through water puppetry storytelling, at least three musicians, and interlude commentaries. Somewhat humorous and endearing at times, puppets are guided through the water by puppeteers hidden behind a curtain. The hour-long show, which takes place several times a day, highlights the folklore and culture of this ancient civilization. Thang Long Water Puppet is aimed only at tourists, and so is not for the cynical and disenchanted traveler. For a more authentic and intimate experience, head to the National Puppetry Theatre or catch one of the shows at the Museum of Ethnology. Flashing cameras and video recorders can be extremely distracting.
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