Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre or Water Puppets Hanoi located in Hanoi is a world-famous tourist spot. It has genesis in an art which was originated in the last quarter of the 11th century. Basically it was started in the villages of the Red River Delta. The tradition is from those times when rice fields were flooded and villagers used to enjoy by standing in deep water. Large rods are used in the show to support the puppets and it seems as if they are roaming across the water.
This Vietnamese water puppetry is an exclusive event on ancient Asian puppet tradition. Water Puppets Hanoi made of wood are performed in a waist-deep water pool. Rods are controlled by the puppeteers hidden behind the screens. It seems as if the puppets are moving over the water. The villager’s conduct the puppet play when the rice fields get flooded. This puppetry show has been evolved over time. It is now performed in a small pool has an area of 4 square meters by keeping the water at the center stage. A staging area is established for performers.
Usually, eight puppeteers control the Water Puppets Hanoi show. Puppets have normal weight of up to 15 kilograms. Rice normally grows in water paddy fields. As per traditions, the original puppet event held in rice paddy fields with a pagoda built on top to keep the puppeteers away from public sight. Water is taken as a stage. It is symbolically connected to harvesting.
The puppet show provides a beautiful lightening effect and soothing musical sound. The traditional orchestra is dedicated to this event which complements the musical requirement. Drums, cymbals, bamboo flutes and the wooden bells are some other instruments being used. Cymbal and drums sound like the entrance of a dragon. Opera song explains the story being told in the puppet show. Musicians and the puppets interact during the show and encourage the audience to stay energized.
Puppets can come to the stage from any side of their choice. The colorful stage makes the overall environment adorable. The theme of the overall skit has rural touch and Vietnamese folklore traditions can be easily observed in the show. It explains how the Vietnamese live and spend their time in a day to day affairs. National history, as well as skits, are also elaborated through such kind of short skirts. Most of the skits have humorous twists. Overall it is a show worth watching and if you have added Vietnam in your traveling list then add Water Puppets Hanoi also.
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