PHOTO GALLERY: Unique Traditional Opera Art of the Province

In modern life, while many traditional art forms are gradually fading into the background, the art of <i>hat boi</i> (Vietnamese classical opera) quietly persists in the cultural life of the people. The art of <i>hat boi</i> in the province has been preserved, maintained, and promoted in diverse and creative ways, even taking <i>hat boi</i> performances to the United States for overseas Vietnamese and international students, creating positive effects.

In modern life, while many traditional art forms are gradually fading into the background, the art of hat boi (Vietnamese classical opera) quietly persists in the cultural life of the people. The art of hat boi in the province has been preserved, maintained, and promoted in diverse and creative ways, even taking hat boi performances to the United States for overseas Vietnamese and international students, creating positive effects.

A scene depicting a traditional Vietnamese opera performance on stage.

Foreign tourists take souvenir photos with the traditional opera artists.

The body movements are decisive, the gaze is expressive during the performance, conveying the character's emotions with high intensity, reflecting the distinctive performance language of traditional art.

The artist's hands are meticulous in the makeup process.

In 2024, " Vinh Long Province's Traditional Opera" was included in the National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage for folk performing arts.

In recent years, traditional Vietnamese opera (hat boi) has been included in the province's tourism programs, becoming one of the most popular tour programs in the Mekong Delta.

The province boasts numerous artists, artisans, and families deeply connected to traditional Vietnamese opera (hat boi) for generations, contributing to its preservation and transmission over hundreds of years. These troupes are renowned throughout Southern Vietnam, including famous troupes such as Tan Phuoc Lap, Dong Thinh, Bau Luong, Bau Xam, Bau Mau, Bau Vo, and Bau Day. Many artists have been awarded the title of "Outstanding Artisan" in the art of hat boi, such as Huynh Van Rang (Bau Rang), Nguyen Van Tot (artist Vu Linh Tam), and Huynh Thi Yen Linh (artist Yen Linh).

Having the opportunity to closely observe a traditional Vietnamese opera troupe, one can truly appreciate the authenticity, the dedication and sacrifice for the art, and the authentic portrayal of the opera artists in every moment, both backstage and on stage...

For the art of traditional Vietnamese opera, the artist not only "performs" a role, but also carries the responsibility of preserving a part of the nation's cultural memory and art...

KHANH DUY (compiled)

Source: https://baovinhlong.com.vn/phong-su-ky-su/202512/chum-anh-doc-dao-nghe-thuat-hat-boi-tinh-2ee40f5/