Discover a distinctive Vietnamese performing art through a water puppet show in Hanoi.
Artist Phan Thanh Liem comes from a family with a long tradition of water puppetry. His father, Phan Van Ngai, helped develop mobile stages and trained other performers. The family’s work includes interpretations of Chu Teu, the humorous character who often introduces a water puppet performance. The older generation also took shows around the country through the family’s Song Ngoctroupe.
Water puppetry is deeply rooted in the villages of northern Vietnam. In the family’s tradition, making the wooden figures and learning to perform with them are closely connected skills passed between generations.
Phan Van Ngai’s mobile-stage work helped take performances beyond village ponds. Phan Thanh Liem later developed a compact miniature theatre, making it easier to present the art to smaller audiences and travel with the show.
A miniature stage for a traditional art
Traditional shows use lacquered wooden puppets controlled from behind a screen by rods and mechanisms hidden under the water. Larger productions require several performers and substantial equipment; Liem’s smaller stage allows a more intimate setting.
With the miniature theatre, audiences can watch familiar scenes of rural life at close range and learn more about how the puppets move. The compact design also gives the artist room to experiment with new stories while drawing on traditional techniques.
Phan Thanh Liem introducing visitors to water puppetry
His performances have travelled to communities in Vietnam and international cultural events. For visitors to Hanoi, a workshop-style encounter can offer a closer look at the craft than a larger theatre show. Confirm the venue, language support and opportunities to try the puppets when booking.
Read moreVietnam Tour Fun Travel Blog
Background: Vietnam News Agency’s profile of Phan Thanh Liem and his family’s work.
To include more local encounters in your holiday, explore Sustainable Vietnam: Villages and Local Life - 12 Days. Tell our team which traditions, places and everyday experiences interest you most.
