Last month, a friend and I visited Hanoi, Vietnam. We were thinking of some cool things to do that wasn’t too expensive. The Thang Long Puppet Theatre is a must visit for anyone wanting to experience Vietnam’s traditional art and culture. I have been here back in 2017 and wanted to go again so my friend could experience this.
Getting There
Located near Hoan Kiem Lake, our hotel was a short 10 minute walk/stroll to the theatre. Our hotel recommended this Water Puppet Theatre over a new one that just recently opened. We went to the theatre early in the afternoon to check out what the showtimes were and what was available.
best to buy tickets in advance at the ticket booth or online
5 showtimes are held everyday of the week 365 days a year. With times of 3 PM, 4:10 PM, 5:20 PM, 6:30 PM and 8 PM. Ticket prices range from 100,000 VND ($5.33 CAD) to 200,000 VND ($10.66 CAD). We bought the 3 PM show since it was almost 2 hours until showtime and got the front row ticket which was the most expensive. We then left to explore the area and planned to be back early.
200,000 VND per front row ticket is about $11 CAD
About the Theatre
Established in 1969, the Thang Long Puppet Theatre wanted to preserve and showcase the traditional art to a wider audience. This unique show brings ancient folklore and legends to life using wooden puppets that glide over water, controlled by crafty puppeteers who remain hidden.
wooden puppets in museum area
The show is 50 minutes and features several acts of stories of rural life, historical events, mythical creatures, all with the help of live traditional Vietnamese music. Using unique instruments like the erhu, bamboo flute, and the zither, it adds to the experience. Everything is in Vietnamese, but there are translated programs and audio guides available on request.
traditional theatre with water stage
Our Visit
We went back to the theatre about a half hour before showtime because we were told we would enter the theatre first because of the wheelchair. Within a few minutes I had 4 staff members carry me with my wheelchair up over 20 stairs. It was a bit of a scary feeling but I was always safe.
staff carrying me up the stairs to watch the show
Once at the top, there were artwork, displays and wooden puppets for sale. We went right to our seats which was the front row of the theatre. Within seconds, the rest of the attendees started coming in to get to their seats.
accessible seating is front row
The front row has a great view of the entire stage. I was able to see the side stages where the musicians are playing their instruments and singing. We didn’t get the translated programs but I could understand some of the dialogue knowing some Vietnamese. A person not knowing any Vietnamese could still understand the main storyline by watching the action.
can see the musicians and singers on the side
The 50 minute show went by fast and was very enjoyable from beginning to finish. It made me appreciate Vietnam life and culture even more as I had a smile for most of the show.
really cool water puppets
Final Thoughts
My friend and I did enjoy the show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. Even though there were many stairs to get to the second floor to see the show, staff were all willing and capable to carry wheelchairs guests up and down. I would see the show a third time next time I am back in Hanoi. It was conveniently located downtown too.
