Beyond exploring landmarks, delving into the unique rural culture of northern Vietnam and its heritage sites is an enticing tourism offering in Quoc Oai District.
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| The captivating live-action show, Quintessence of Tonkin, captivates audiences with its authentic portrayal of northern Vietnam’s rustic charm. Photo: Thanh Hai/The Hanoi Times |
Set in the heart of Baara Land, an entertainment and culinary haven in Sai Son Commune, Quintessence of Tonkin is a live performance that invites visitors on a journey through time to discover the essence of Vietnam’s countryside, its history, and cultural richness.
With meticulous attention to detail, the show reflects the simplicity and beauty of traditional rural life in the north. It skillfully brings to life the daily routines and traditions of the northern villagers, evoking a sense of nostalgia and connection to the land.
Deeply rooted in northern culture, the performance showcases a diverse range of artistic expressions, including traditional dances, the mesmerizing sounds of folk music, and the highlight of the show, quan ho – an emotional and graceful genre of northern folk singing that leaves audiences spellbound.
As the performance unfolds, each dance step and melodic tune is carefully choreographed and composed to create a harmonious symphony. The audience is transported to the very heart of northern Vietnam’s cultural heritage, evoking a deep sense of emotion and pride in the nation’s rich legacy.
The life and works of the poet, water puppet pioneer, and revered Buddhist monk, Tu Dao Hanh, inspire the show’s narrative. Quintessence of Tonkin is divided into six captivating scenes: Poetry, Buddhist Realm, Nostalgia, Music and Painting, Joy, and Festivities, each offering a unique glimpse into the region’s cultural tapestry.
The opening scene, Poetry, sets the tone with a vibrant depiction of farmers toiling in the fields, fishermen navigating misty waters, and the iconic buffalo, a symbol of Vietnam’s agricultural heritage. It is a powerful tribute to the country’s rural backbone.
As the show transitions to the Buddhist Realm, Tu Dao Hanh emerges as a bell-ringer, praying for peace. The performance presents water puppetry, an iconic Vietnamese art form, through real-life stories, offering a fresh perspective that differs from its mythological roots.
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| The show beautifully captures the essence of northern Vietnam’s farming traditions, presenting a world that is both authentic and enchanting. Photo: Thanh Hai/The Hanoi Times |
In the Nostalgia section, viewers are transported to the imperial citadel of Thang Long, where scholars in traditional robes take their exams. This scene underscores Vietnam’s deep respect for education, enhanced by triumphant music and modern lighting effects that stir a sense of pride and reverence.
The performance then moves to Music and Painting, where dancers dressed as celestial maidens grace the stage with elegant movements that celebrate the artistic spirit of northern culture. Advanced 3D effects create an ethereal atmosphere, with shimmering water adding to the enchanting ambiance.
The finale, comprising the Joy and Festivities scenes, immerses the audience in the agrarian rituals and spiritual celebrations of the north. Actors portray farmers harvesting crops, sowing seeds, and taking part in traditional games, bringing to life the vibrant festivals of the region.
A particularly poignant moment occurs when the cast turns to face the illuminated Chua Thay (Thay Pagoda) Mountain, with a lotus blossoming in the night sky. This visual symbolism represents Tu Dao Hanh’s spiritual legacy, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
Quintessence of Tonkin masterfully blends the simplicity of northern village life with theatrical grandeur. The cast, consisting of approximately 250 performers, includes residents of Da Sy Village in Sai Son Commune, ranging in age from 10 to 80. By day, they tend to their farms, and by night, they transform into artists, delivering authentic and emotionally charged performances that captivate audiences.
The stage itself is a spectacle, featuring a massive 4,300-square-meter water surface surrounded by the majestic Sai Son Mountains and lush greenery. State-of-the-art technology enhances the experience with lighting, sound, and hydrothermal effects. The water pavilion’s dramatic emergence from the lake adds to the show’s magical allure.
According to Hoang Duc Thinh, Head of Communications at Tuan Chau Hanoi JSC, the show’s organizer, international tourists used to make up a significant portion of the audience before the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Now, we’re seeing an increase in domestic visitors from Hanoi and nearby provinces, indicating a growing interest among Vietnamese people in exploring their cultural and historical roots,” Thinh shared with The Hanoi Times.
To accommodate a diverse range of audiences, especially students, the organizers introduced daytime performances, making this cultural experience accessible to all.
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| Students from Xuan Son and Son Loc middle schools in Son Tay Town were immersed in the unique cultural experience, witnessing the beauty of traditional farming practices. Photo: Thanh Hai/The Hanoi Times |
On a crisp winter morning in December, nearly 1,000 students from Xuan Son and Son Loc middle schools in Son Tay Town attended the performance. They were treated to a vivid portrayal of traditional farming practices, a rare sight in today’s modern world.
“This educational activity introduces students to Vietnam’s cultural traditions, with a focus on Hanoi’s rich heritage,” said Phan Thi Huyen Nga, Principal of Xuan Son Middle School. “It instills national pride and fosters a deep appreciation for Vietnamese culture, inspiring our students to become responsible citizens who contribute to the country’s future.”
Nga added that the daytime performances fit well within the students’ busy weekly schedules, providing them with a valuable opportunity to engage with and appreciate the unique cultural heritage of northern Vietnam.
“The Quintessence of Tonkin performance holds immense cultural value and is especially beneficial for students,” she emphasized in her interview with The Hanoi Times.
This captivating performance takes place on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 7:30 pm, with additional daytime shows during the week catering to tourists and student groups.
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