SAIGON OPERA HOUSE, ONE OF THE HISTORIC MONUMENTS IN HO CHI MINH CITY WITH OUTSTANDING SHOWS

The stunning Saigon Opera House is sight candy, especially for those who appreciate French colonial architecture. Though largely for plays and concerts of classical music, it has been used for a range of events. During the day as well as at night, the structure is without a doubt one of Saigon’s most breathtaking views. Art fans should not miss the cultural performances held at the Saigon Opera House.

The Saigon Opera House, formerly known as the Municipal Theatre, is a spectacular building located in the center of Ho Chi Minh City.

1. Overview of Saigon Opera House

History:

  • 1898: Saigon Opera House was constructed and was completed two years laters.
  • On January 17, 1900: French artists and performers gave the Opera House opening performance.
  • On November 18, 1918: Vietnamese organized the first-ever performance of a play infused with Cai Luong, a Southern Vietnamese theatrical genre also known as Vietnamese opera, at the Opera House.
  • 1945–1955: The Opera House served as the Assembly House for Southern Vietnam when it was shuttered during World War II and reopened in 1955 following the Geneva Convention.
  • May 1975: It is formally dubbed the city’s opera house.
  • 1996: For renovations, the Saigon Opera House is closed.
  • December 18, 1998: The Saigon Opera House opened for business following a two-year restoration. Ho Chi Minh City celebrated its 300th anniversary at the event.
  • 2012: A National Relic designation is given to the Opera House.

Location: Saigon Opera House can be found at No. 7, Cong Truong Lam Son Street, District 1. This is at a prime location in the center of the city, adjacent to several iconic landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office.

2. The remarkable architectural design of the Saigon Opera House

Saigon Opera House is a prominent attraction in Ho Chi Minh City with a total area of nearly 3,200 m2, the “flamboyant” style of the French Third Republic, and has been recognized as a National Relic. The Opera House is the venue for government functions, symphonic concerts, contemporary dance, bamboo cirque, and other exciting cultural events.

The house is adorned with statues at the entrance and stone-carved decorations from the outside. Raised more than two meters above street level, it included two sets of doors to block off outside traffic noise. Besides, there are two additional sitting levels in addition to the main orchestra level seating area, which can hold 1,800 people at one time. The arched window system with high railing was inspired by the audacious style of classical French architecture.

This building is undoubtedly one of Saigon’s most magnificent vistas, day or night. You may take in the splendor of the home at night when it is bathed in vibrant light.

3. Ticket price and opening hours

Ticket prices and opening hours can vary depending on the event and time of year. It often costs between 300,000 and 1,500,000 VND (between 13 and 65 USD). Prices can vary based on the type of performance and seating category. It is advisable to check with their official website or local ticket vendors for information on ticket purchasing and performance schedules, as times may be different. It is a good idea to get tickets in advance, particularly for popular shows or during the busiest travel seasons.

Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM from Monday to Sunday.

4. The top outstanding of Saigon Opera House Show

A O Show

One of the most well-known is A O Show. This exceptional type of performance art creates a captivating experience by fusing live music, storytelling, circus, and creative bamboo use. The program delves into the opposing themes of Vietnam’s tranquil rural areas and its rapidly expanding urban areas. Besides, in the A O Show, audiences may see how modern dance, acrobatics, and dramatic components are seamlessly combined.

A O Show – This show will bring a new and unique artistic experience to you.

Teh Dar Show

Take in Teh Dar, a dramatic show at the Saigon Opera House that combines tribal music from Vietnam’s Southwest Highlands with aerial acrobatics and circus arts. Talented performers tell stories of faith and love in the theatre that date back a century. Do not miss this exciting show while in Ho Chi Minh City.

Teh Dar Show – A few tribes in the Central Highlands of Vietnam are the source of inspiration for Teh Dar.

The Mist Show

The Mist Show gives viewers a greater insight into the daily life of hard-working Vietnamese farmers. Next, the show celebrates the perseverance and hardship of the farmers who grew rice on poor, muddy land. Actors and actresses will portray the farmers’ day from sunrise to sunset through neoclassical and modern dances.

The Mist Show – Description of farmers in Vietnam and rice farming

5. How to get there?

The Saigon Opera House is located in District 1, so you can get there by various means of transportation.

Taxi or Grab App: Easy alternatives include taxis and ride-sharing apps like Grab. The Saigon Opera House may be found by entering “Nhà hát Lớn Thành phố” or “Saigon Opera House” into the app.

Bus: Several city buses pass near the Opera House. Look for routes that stop at Ben Thanh Market or nearby landmarks, which are a short walk from the Opera House. Buses 03, 19, and 45 all go past the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House, so you may easily take one of those.

Personal Vehicles: If you drive a personal vehicle, you can park it at the theater’s lot.
Walking: If you’re staying nearby, walking could be a pleasant way to reach the Opera House, as it’s centrally located and within walking distance from many hotels and attractions. By preparing in advance and choosing a convenient mode of transportation, you can fully enjoy the rich cultural experience offered by one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Saigon Opera House is a must-visit when you travel to Ho Chi Minh City.