Vietnamese classical opera (Hát Bội): Echoes of the Past and a Journey to Reclaim Its Glory.

When mentioning Hat Boi, a theatrical art form deeply ingrained in the hearts of the Vietnamese people, one cannot help but think of vibrant performances, resounding drum and gong sounds, and heroic historical figures vividly recreated on stage. From North to South, Hat Boi has become an indispensable part of cultural life, especially in Central and Southern Vietnam, where this art form has been cherished and flourished for hundreds of years.

Perhaps few people know that Vietnamese classical opera (Hát Bội) has undergone a long journey to achieve its current status. From the 17th century, when Đào Duy Từ (1572-1634), a renowned official during the Nguyễn dynasty, brought Hát Bội from the North to the South, this art form gradually captured the hearts of the people there. Over the centuries, under the skillful hands of artists like Đào Tấn, Hát Bội was not merely a folk art but rose to become a court art, patronized by the Huế court. Classic plays such as "Sơn Hậu," "Diễn Võ Đình," and "Tam Nữ Đồ Vương" have left a lasting impression on viewers, reflecting the heroic spirit, loyalty, and noble moral values ​​of the Vietnamese people.

An excerpt from the play "Dao Tam Xuan Raises the Flag". Photo: Thong Hai/VNP

Nevertheless, with the constant changes of time, traditional Vietnamese opera (Hát Bội) has also experienced its ups and downs. From being the main performing art in festivals and ceremonies, Hát Bội has gradually given way to newer, more modern art forms. Once renowned Hát Bội troupes like Đồng Thinh, Bầu Luông, and Bầu Mầu now only remain in the memories of those who love traditional art. However, the flame of passion in the hearts of the artists has never died out. They continue to be dedicated to the stage, continuing to teach the younger generation with the hope of preserving and spreading the flame of art, so that Hát Bội will never be forgotten.

Today, efforts to preserve and promote the value of Vietnamese classical opera (Hát Bội) are being intensified in many localities across the country. From Binh Dinh, Vinh Long, and Quang Ngai to other regions, programs for teaching, restoring, and promoting Hát Bội are gradually bringing this art form closer to the public, especially young people. Beyond performances at festivals, Hát Bội is also integrated into cultural tourism programs, creating a unique tourism product that attracts the attention of domestic and international tourists. This is both a way to preserve Hát Bội and an opportunity to introduce and spread the distinctive cultural values ​​of the Vietnamese people to the international community.

The characters are impressively designed. Photo: Thong Hai/VNP

The journey to reclaim the glory of Vietnamese classical opera (Hát Bội) is a story of perseverance and passion. Despite facing numerous challenges, with the tireless efforts of artisans, cultural administrators, and the public's interest, Hát Bội is gradually restoring its place in the hearts of the Vietnamese people. This is not just the journey of an art form, but also the journey of an entire culture, where the past and present intertwine to build the future.

Amidst the resounding drums and gongs, Vietnamese traditional opera (Hát Bội) continues to live on, continuing to tell historical stories and convey the spiritual values ​​of the Vietnamese people. These melodies, despite enduring the ups and downs of time, remain forever an echo of the past and a relentless journey to rediscover the glory of traditional Vietnamese theatrical art.

Hoang Anh