Water puppetry

Water puppetry (múa rối nước) is a thousand-year-old art form originating in the Red River Delta, where farmers first performed these shows in flooded rice paddies. The tradition uses water as both a stage and a storytelling element, symbolizing the integral role of water in Vietnamese life. Performances often depict rural life, myths, and historical tales, emphasizing themes of harmony between humans and nature. This art form remains a testament to the ingenuity of Vietnamese culture in blending entertainment with environmental elements.

In Dao Thuc Village, water puppetry sustains the local economy by attracting tourists and providing income for artists and craftspeople who create the puppets. It also supports the preservation of traditional craftsmanship and storytelling in Vietnam’s modern economy.

The Red River Delta’s monsoon climate and abundance of water make it a natural setting for this unique tradition. Water puppetry embodies the agricultural calendar and flood cycles, reinforcing the community’s historical relationship with their environment.