Cai Luong - traditional theatre

In Hanoi

Cai Luong originated from Southern Vietnam, but over the centuries its popularity has spread to the North. The best place to see it in Hanoi is the Cai Luong Theater in the middle of Old Quater, which offers regular weekly performances but will arrange extra dates by request.

Its subjects include dramas ancient and modern as well as others that have been adapted from foreign novels; some are even based on Shakespeare’s works.

Performances normally begin with a village drum dance featuring Teu - also the traditional hero of water puppet dramas. Tickets cost VND40,000 and are sold at the Theater on Saturdays for the following week’s perfomance, or alternatively you can order them by calling 04-9341370.

Cai Luong Theatre
72 Hang Bac St., Hanoi

In Saigon - Ho Chi Minh City

Well-known Saigon landmark before 1975, Hung Dao Theatre is now the only remaining theatre in Saigon specializing in Cai Luong. Formerly the most popular form of traditional drama in the south of Vietnam, there were once more than 10 other cai luong theatres in the city but they have all closed in recent years because of falling audiences. Hung Dao Theatre alone keep cai luong alive, with performance from 8pm on Saturday and Sunday evenings. The theatre perform plays that bring a breath of modern life to the form as well as famous classical pieces. The theatre will also stage short programs (about 45 minutes each) on request for groups of tourist. Tickets cost VND20,000-VND80,000. (see cheo)

Hung Dao Theatre
136 Hung Dao St., HCMC

The Guide, photo by pixiduc

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