The Quintessence of Tonkin is deep experiences of live performances by locals, traditional Vietnamese music, water-light show, and daily stories. If you have a wish to explore Northern culture and tradition of S-shaped country, this show can’t be missed for sure.
The Show explains the ancient union between religion and the monarchy through the combination of water puppet show with live-action and human performers.
Tokin Show is blended 6 different aspects of the cultural Quintessence of Tonkin: Poetry, Buddhism, Nostalgia, Music & Painting, Joy & Festivities. Besides, water puppetry – a typical form of Vietnamese art, which has existed for more than 1,000 years – as a part of the Quintessence of Tonkin will bring you amazing images of daily rural life in Vietnam.
1. Dance on the water
In this show, the audience will be able to get an insight into the culture of Northern Vietnam, the history of building up the Red River Delta provinces and somehow experiences a real life of Northern people. If Water Puppet Show just focuses on reflecting the old myth and legend through Puppet’s story, this spectacle is very different: live performer “dance” on the water to tell everyday life’s stories.
2. Buddhist architecture
Another special thing about this show is the stage resembling Thay Pagoda, one of the oldest Buddhist pagodas in Vietnam. Chua Thay has played a vital role in religious and cultural relic and it is a frequent pilgrimage site in Lunar New Year or festival. When the show begins, the pagodas will gradually come upon the water, which is very impressive.
3. Performers did not go through any artistic school.
Guess who will be our performers? No one is more suitable to tell the story of a farmer, a fisherman, a villager than themselves who are performing their daily tasks. This provides surreal experiences for audiences.
There are two groups of performers in this show: local families of farmers, bringing their experience and showcasing their lives to the audiences, and a young team of talented Students from the Hanoi College of Dance, bringing youth and energy to the stage.
With over 100 locals with lively performance and traditional Vietnamese music, The Quintessence of Tonkin, the grandest performance in Hanoi is suitable for everyone, even young children from all countries. Free shuttle bus and dinner buffet are also included in the show.