Every spring, when the lively sounds of festival drums resound throughout the countryside, the melodies of traditional Vietnamese opera, folk songs, and religious rituals reappear in the festival atmosphere, contributing to the preservation and dissemination of the nation's long-standing cultural values.
The stage of folk art
At this year's Con Son - Kiet Bac Spring Festival, pilgrims flocked here not only to offer incense in remembrance of their ancestors but also to immerse themselves in a culturally rich and distinctive atmosphere.
Amidst the mountains and forests of Con Son, the sound of drums marks the beginning of a series of unique cultural and artistic activities. From vibrant dragon and lion dances to traditional folk songs and operas, everything blends together to create a colorful festival scene.
One of the highlights of this year's festival is the art program "Con Son, Kiet Bac - The Source of Heritage". The program is elaborately staged with the participation of many traditional stage artists, recreating the images of famous figures associated with this sacred land such as Tran Hung Dao, Nguyen Trai, and Huyen Quang Ton Gia.
Ms. Nguyen Thu Hang, a tourist from Hanoi, shared her thoughts after watching the art performance at the festival: “Watching traditional art performances in the historical site's setting evoked very special emotions. I liked how the artists combined Cheo singing with dance and stage lighting. Although the performances were short, each one was very moving.”
According to Ms. Hang, incorporating folk art into festivals not only enlivens the festival atmosphere but also helps viewers better understand the cultural values of the region. Festivals provide a favorable environment for folk art to exist and develop. In that space, art is closely linked to the spiritual life of the community.
Many localities are now also seeking ways to bring traditional theater back to historical sites. For example, the Cai Luong play "Heroes in Times of Chaos," performed by artists from the Hai Phong Traditional Theater at the Phuong My village temple festival (Le Ich Moc ward) during the early spring festival, left a strong impression on the public.
The Phương Mỹ village communal house is dedicated to three heroes: Phạm Tử Nghi, Phạm Quảng, and Quý Minh Đại Vương, figures who contributed significantly to local history. When the stories of these heroes are reenacted through cải lương (Vietnamese traditional opera) in the sacred space of the ancient communal house, viewers can experience them more deeply.
Many young visitors, seeing traditional Vietnamese opera (chèo or cải lương) for the first time at the festival, expressed their delight. This shows that when introduced correctly and placed in the right setting, traditional art still has a strong appeal.
Spreading the value of heritage
Besides theatrical performances, many festivals also serve as venues for practicing and showcasing traditional religious rituals. The Festival of Practicing the Tam Phu Mother Goddess Worship, held within the framework of the traditional festival at Lac Duc communal house and temple in Dai Son commune, is a prime example.
The program took place in the solemn setting of the historical site, attracting a large number of locals and tourists. The highlight of the event was the ritual performance by the artisan and medium Nguyen Minh Thien. To the melodious sounds of traditional Vietnamese folk music, the spirit mediums performed their acts in the correct order of the ritual. Images of figures such as Saint Tran, the High Official, the Goddess, and the Emperor were recreated through vibrant costumes, graceful movements, and traditional music.
Beyond their spiritual significance, these rituals also reflect the cultural life and beliefs of the Vietnamese community across generations. Incorporating religious practices into festivals aims to honor the value of the heritage "The Practice of the Mother Goddess Worship of the Three Realms of the Vietnamese People," a UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritage of humanity.
Many festivals also become spaces for traditional folk songs to be performed. On the Da Do River (Kien Thuy commune), small boats carrying male and female singers sing sweet Quan Ho folk songs amidst the river scenery. The heartfelt lyrics of "Oh, my dear, don't leave" resonate. Ms. Nguyen Thi Sam, a resident of Kien Thuy commune, shared: "I am very proud to hear traditional folk melodies at the festival. Programs like this help the younger generation understand and love traditional culture more."
MOC MIENSource: https://baohaiphong.vn/luu-giu-nghe-thuat-dan-gian-537811.html
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