EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WATER PUPPET FROM VIETNAM

Water puppet in Vietnam is a captivating art form that transcends age, offering entertainment and cultural insight for everyone. This unique performance art reveals scenes of traditional village life on a dynamic stage, showcasing festivals, customs, and endearing characters inspired by Vietnamese culture. Whether you’re young or old, the charm and storytelling of Vietnam’s water puppets provide a delightful window into the country’s rich heritage.

1. History

Water puppetry, or “Múa rối nước” in Vietnamese, has roots dating back over a thousand years to the Red River Delta region. It is believed to have originated in rural Vietnam, where farmers used their own makeshift puppets and a water stage to entertain their families and neighbors. The tradition is said to have evolved from ancient ritual performances meant to ensure a good harvest. Over time, it developed into a sophisticated art form with intricate puppets, elaborate scenes, and a rich repertoire of stories.

Historically, water puppetry was performed in village ponds and rice fields, making use of the water’s reflective surface as the stage. This unique setting allowed the puppeteers to hide behind a screen and manipulate the puppets from below the water, creating the illusion that the puppets were moving on their own.

2. A stage of the water puppets

Just as unique as the show itself is the water puppetry stage. It is composed of a sizable, shallow pool of water that is normally only a meter or so deep, and it is usually accompanied by a backdrop that features traditional Vietnamese villages or landscapes. The performance has a mystical effect because the water doubles as the stage and the reflecting surface.
The puppeteers use long rods and strings to control the puppets while positioned behind a curtain or bamboo screen at the rear of the pool. The actual puppets are made of wood and have elaborate paintings and decorations on them. They move with the help of secret machinery and the deft manipulation of the puppeteers, floating on the water’s surface. The water adds support to the puppets and intensifies splashes and ripples, adding to the dynamic nature of the show.

3. Show of water puppets

Water puppet shows are a vibrant mix of storytelling, music, and choreography. Performances typically last between 45 minutes to an hour and feature a series of short, episodic scenes. The stories often depict traditional village life, historical legends, folklore, and humorous skits.

Each show is accompanied by live music played on traditional Vietnamese instruments like the “Đàn bầu”(one-stringed zither), “Đàn tranh” (plucked zither), and “Trống” (drums). The music, combined with the puppetry, brings to life tales of ancient heroes, mythical creatures, and everyday life in rural Vietnam.

Popular scenes include dragon dances, lion dances, and stories of magical creatures. The humor and charm of the characters, along with the clever use of water effects, create an entertaining and immersive experience for the audience.

4. Where to watch

Here you can learn how to make puppets and find one of the last water puppet workshops in Vietnam. Magnificent outdoor performances fit for the village’s 300-year history are presented on a lovely stage. Numerous water puppet theatres offering both classic and contemporary performances may be found across the towns. Here are some of the top locations in the nation to see a show:

4.1. Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

The most well-known and famous place to see a water puppet show in Vietnam is the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, which is situated in Hanoi. This theatre, which has been around for a few decades, puts on captivating shows that highlight traditional Vietnamese culture through puppetry, music, and storytelling. You need to have a reservation for the tickets from their website and see the schedule.

Address: No.57B, Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Ha Noi.

Prices: 100.000 to 200.000 (4 to 8 USD)

Website: thanglongwaterpuppet.com

Thang Long water puppet in Hanoi

4.2. Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater

The Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre, one of the greatest locations in Ho Chi Minh City to see a water puppet play, enthralls both locals and visitors with its immersive experience. The theatre, which is centrally located, offers excellent productions with accomplished puppeteers and lively storytelling, making for a memorable cultural experience. Enthralling performances based on classic folktales and legends, such as “Thach Sanh and Ly Thong,” “Journey to the West,” “Magic Bottle,” “Cinderella,” “The Mermaid,” and “Aladdin,” are known to be presented by this cultural jewel. The show duration is about 50 minutes.

Address: No. 55B, Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, District 1.

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM to 6:00 PM Daily

Prices: Range about 200.000 to 300.000 (8 to 12 USD)

Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater

4.3. Phuong Nam Water Puppet

Phuong Nam Art Theatre is still carrying out the duties of its two forerunners. To be more precise, it plans and coordinates performances of general art, circus, and puppetry; conserves and advances these artistic disciplines; and blends these disciplines with other artistic mediums like singing, dance, music, theatre, and film to provide varied and rich artistic programs. The theatre also arranges experience exchanges with foreign theatres, art groups, and cultural organizations in addition to hosting performances for international cultural events and exchanges.

You can check the water puppet show schedule on their official website, currently there are only shows on Saturday and Sunday every week. So, you will check and book tickets in advance.

Address: Museum History, No.2, Nguyen Binh Khiem, District 1.

Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 1:30 PM to 4:00 PM Daily

Prices: 120.000 to 200.000 VND (4.8 to 8 USD)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MuaroinuocRongPhuongNam/

Website: http://nhahatphuongnam.com.vn/

Phuong Nam Water Puppet – The best experience in the Vietnamese culture

5. Tips for searching the water puppets show

-Book Tickets in advance: Water puppet shows are popular, especially during peak tourist seasons, so it’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance to secure a good seat.

-Arrive early: Arriving early gives you a chance to choose a better spot and take in the ambiance of the theater. It also allows time to explore any nearby cultural exhibits or shops.

-Understand the context: While the performances are visually captivating, having some background knowledge about Vietnamese folklore and traditions can enhance your appreciation of the show. Many theaters provide programs or explanations about the stories and characters featured.

-Bring cash: Some theaters may not accept credit cards, so it’s advisable to carry cash for ticket purchases and any souvenirs you might want to buy.

-Respect the Culture: During the show, be mindful of local customs and etiquette. Keep noise to a minimum and refrain from taking flash photography, as this can be distracting to both performers and other audience members.