5 unique customs behind Vietnamese water puppetry
What's the story
Vietnamese water puppetry is an exquisite art form dating back to the 11th century. Emerging from the rice paddies of Northern Vietnam, this traditional performance employs water as a stage for puppets, making for an entrancing sight. The art form is an integral part of Vietnamese culture and history, depicting various facets of rural life and folklore through its performances. Here are five intriguing customs that make Vietnamese water puppetry a fascinating cultural experience.
Floating stage
Puppets on water
In Vietnamese water puppetry, the stage is essentially a pool of water. This custom makes the puppets seem like they are gliding across the surface, bringing an element of magic to the performance. The use of water not only gives a unique stage but also symbolizes prosperity and fertility in Vietnamese culture.
Behind the screen
Hidden puppeteers
In Vietnamese water puppetry, the puppeteers are hidden behind a screen, keeping the illusion of the puppets moving across water intact. Using long bamboo rods and strings hidden under the water, they effortlessly manipulate the wooden figures. The tradition is a mark of the artistry and precision of the puppeteers, who give life to the characters, preserving the magic of them moving on their own across water.
Musical harmony
Traditional music accompaniment
Music is an inseparable part that adds to the storytelling element of water puppetry. Each performance is accompanied by traditional instruments such as drums, cymbals, and flutes, which set the mood for different scenes. The music not just complements but also leads both performers and audience through different tales.
Folklore tales
Cultural storytelling themes
The water puppet shows usually tell stories related to Vietnamese folklore and day-to-day rural life. It could be a tale about harvests, fishing expeditions, village festivals, or legendary heroes. While they give you an insight into Vietnam's illustrious cultural heritage, these narratives also keep the audiences entertained with their timeless appeal.
Colorful characters
Vibrant puppet designs
The design of each puppet in Vietnamese water puppetry is a sight to behold, with vivid colors and intricate craftsmanship. Carved out of wood and painted by hand by artisans, these figures are easily distinguishable from one another when performing. This process of skillful attention to detail makes characters come alive against the watery backdrop, making this centuries-old tradition continue to thrive.