Vietnamese water puppet show: All about this 11th-century-old art form

New Delhi: Vietnam’s water puppetry, an art form dating back to the 11th century, originated in the Red River Delta as a way for villagers to entertain themselves during the flooded rice harvest season. Performances are held on a water stage, using submerged rods to control wooden puppets that enact folklore, historical events, and rural life, all accompanied by traditional music and singing. The artistry involves intricate wooden puppets, hidden puppeteers, and a blend of music and storytelling to create a unique cultural experience.

While puppeteers stand waist-deep in water to direct the puppets, shows often depict Vietnamese folklore, ancient legends, and myths, such as the story of the returned sword from Hoan Kiem Lake. Many performances illustrate the daily life and activities of rural communities, and re-enact crucial historical events. If you are in Vietnam, don’t forget to visit these places to watch the Vietnamese water puppet show in the coming days.

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1. Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, Hanoi

This is the most renowned water puppet theatre in Vietnam.

Location: 57B Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Hoan Kiem District, across from Hoan Kiem Lake.

Monday to Saturday: 1:45 pm, 3:00 pm, 4:10 pm, 5:20 pm, 6:30 pm, 8:00 pm, and 9:15 pm.

Sunday: 9:30 am, plus the regular weekday schedule.

Duration: Each performance lasts about 50 minutes.

2. Vietnam National Puppetry Theatre

This venue will feature special puppetry exhibits and live performances during the Autumn Fair 2025.

Location: The exhibition space will be at the Vietnam Exposition Centre in Dong Anh commune for the fair.

Timing: The puppetry exhibition and performances will be a cultural highlight of the Autumn Fair, which runs from November 2 to 5, 2025.

3. Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre

This is the main venue for water puppet shows in Ho Chi Minh City.

Location: 55B Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1.

Schedule: Shows are performed daily.

Start Time: A common showtime is 6:30 pm, and it is best to check for other available slots when booking.

Duration: The show is approximately 45 to 50 minutes long.

4. Đó Theatre, Nha Trang

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For an alternative, the Đó Theatre on Bai Tien Beach offers the Life Puppets show, which is a modern fusion of water, string, and shadow puppetry.

A visit to Vietnam is incomplete without experiencing its famous water puppet shows. It beautifully bridges history and art, reminding audiences that true culture lives through stories told across generations.