Xuan Pha folk performance - A precious gem shining brightly in Thanh Hoa province.

Among the treasure trove of Vietnamese folk art, there is a national intangible cultural heritage that remains a fascinating and captivating "mystery" - the Xuan Pha performance. Originating over 1000 years ago from the royal court, the Xuan Pha performance has undergone the vicissitudes of history, becoming deeply rooted in the culture of Thanh Hoa province – an invaluable treasure in the social life of the past and present. Each dance in the Xuan Pha performance therefore bears the indelible mark of court performing arts and folk wisdom – a subtle blend, rich in identity and possessing unique characteristics.

So what makes this heritage so valuable, earning it the title of a "unique classical theater," indistinguishable from other art forms like Cheo or Tuong?

The Stage of Ritual - When the "Play" is Not the "Stage"

The core difference of the Xuan Pha performance lies in its ritualistic nature. There is no scripted dialogue between the characters, no narrative plot. Each performance is a series of symbolic displays, preserving the ancient dances and songs without any mixing.

The name "Trò" itself speaks volumes about its nature: This is not a theatrical performance but a "performance" that tells stories of solidarity, harmony, and cultural exchange, embodying the wisdom and talent of the Vietnamese people – a special theatrical form where dance, symbols, costumes, and masks replace dialogue.

 

  The unique Xuan Pha performance

A unique form of expression through dance, costumes, and masks.

The language of the Xuan Pha stage is expressed through unique, somewhat bizarre yet symbolic masks made of cowhide or wood, along with elaborate costumes that create "characters" without words. In the Xuan Pha performance, the costumes are incredibly elaborate, meticulously designed, and colorful. Each costume is a work of art, contributing to the character's portrayal and creating a vibrant overall picture on stage.

The soul of the performances lies in the five ancient dances (Ngũ trò) that depict the "Tribute of the Five Neighboring Nations": Hoa Lang, Tú Huần, Ai Lao, Ngô Quốc, and Chiêm Thành. Each dance is a distinct artistic world , yet all recreate the image of diplomatic delegations coming to pay homage to the King of Nam Việt.

National heritage and the efforts to "keep the flame alive" in Thanh Hoa province.

It is precisely because of these unique artistic values ​​that Xuan Pha folk performance has been recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage. What makes this heritage even more valuable is its uniqueness: it exists only in Tho Xuan commune.

For a long time, Xuan Pha folk performance has been a shared asset of the entire community. Therefore, preserving and promoting this treasure is proof of Thanh Hoa province's sound tourism development strategy – taking the promotion of unique local cultural values ​​as its core foundation. Accordingly, Xuan Pha folk performance is presented within the framework of festivals, combined with experiential tourism in Tho Xuan commune, or promoted at some events as part of the province's cultural program. This approach not only helps cultural heritage become a valuable and unique tourism resource but also creates a sustainable livelihood for the people, encouraging them to actively participate with the government in the preservation and promotion of heritage in the new era.

Furthermore, to preserve the age-old values ​​that this performance brings, the local community is implementing systematic and dedicated teaching programs. From primary to secondary schools, the dances of the Xuan Pha performance have been nurtured and cultivated persistently. Students are not only taught dance skills but also gain a deeper understanding of the history and culture of their homeland. Learning and experiencing the Xuan Pha performance helps them connect with their roots, fostering love and national pride. And so, the story of the performance's vitality continues to be written with inspiration every day and every hour.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life, Xuan Pha folk performance remains a cultural heritage that retains its unique appeal.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life, Xuan Pha folk performance retains its unique charm. Xuan Pha is not just a dance; it's a rare glimpse into the ancient theatrical traditions of Vietnam, where dance speaks volumes and tradition lives on through every drum beat. Therefore, witnessing this proud heritage firsthand – Xuan Pha folk performance – is like touching the past, feeling the vibrant energy of a heritage that endures through time.

Visiting the countryside of Thanh Hoa province is not just a trip, but an opportunity to witness and contemplate a unique national heritage, to feel the persistent efforts of the land and people of Thanh Hoa, and to express gratitude to the community that is tirelessly "keeping the flame alive" so that this thousand-year-old treasure of the nation continues to shine.