Cheo originated in the early period of Vietnamese culture, associated with the lives of Vietnamese people in many historical periods. The capital Hoa Lu (Ninh Binh) is considered the ancestral land of Cheo theater. Mrs. Pham Thi Tran in the Dinh Dynasty royal palace in the 10th century was the founder of Cheo, later this art form was widely developed in the Northern region. Initially, Cheo was a form of entertainment for villages, performed during village festivals, communal houses, spring festivals or during farming holidays. The main characters in Cheo include Dao - Kep - Lao - Mu and He, a Cheo mat in the middle is the performance space of the "professionals", the octet of musicians sit diagonally on both sides.
The role of the clown in Vietnamese folk art.
The art of Cheo acting is an important factor that makes this type of folk theater attractive. To perform Cheo, the actor must have singing and dancing skills, express the lines in a melodic way, have a deep understanding of the character's psychology, be able to interact flexibly with the audience, and know how to use facial expressions to convey the character's feelings and moods. Gestures and actions in Cheo are metaphorical and symbolic, requiring the actor's sophistication in using body language to express profound meanings.
At the same time, Cheo actors must be proficient in traditional Cheo melodies such as "hat noi", "ly con sao" "hat xam"... with vocal techniques, vibrato, voice vibration and use of breath to create clear, soulful sounds, to convey the mood and feelings of the character. The ability to express genuine feelings and emotions is an important factor that creates the appeal of Cheo acting.
The Cheo stage is open, intimate, a meeting place for the whole community, regardless of age, gender, or social status. In the living space of Vietnamese villages, whenever the Cheo drum sounds crisply, villagers flock to the communal house yard to the beat of the drum, listening to the singing, the sound of instruments, and admiring the graceful dances of the artists. That colorful folk culture has become a strong cultural mark in the life and society of our country.
According to cultural studies, in each historical period of the country, there are Cheo plays that leave a strong mark on contemporary life and society, such as during the Dinh Dynasty (968 - 980), there was the Cheo play "Dinh Bo Linh" praising the merits and talents of the hero Dinh Bo Linh who unified the country and founded the Dinh Dynasty. The play "Le Hoan" tells the story of Le Hoan (Le Dai Hanh), who succeeded Dinh Bo Linh and consolidated the Dinh Dynasty, bringing stability to the country during this period.
During the Ly Dynasty (1010 - 1225), a period of strong development of Cheo art, marked by many plays such as the play "Thai Tong" which glorifies the leadership and achievements of King Ly Thai Tong. The play "Ly Thuong Kiet" praises the military talent and intelligence of the famous general Ly Thuong Kiet, a prominent political figure of the Ly Dynasty famous for his feats against invaders and protecting the country. The Cheo play "Nhan Nghia" reflects moral and personality values, emphasizing the importance of virtue in feudal society during the Ly Dynasty. Related to legends and myths, there is the play "Tu Thuc" which tells the story of a character who can see mysterious worlds, with mythical and legendary elements, a combination of folklore and performing arts. The cultural and artistic elements of the Ly Dynasty created an important foundation for the development of Cheo art in later periods.
The play Thi Mau goes to the pagoda.
During the Tran Dynasty (1225 - 1400) - a period of strong development of culture and art, including Cheo art. The works and characteristics of Cheo during this period can be found through historical and oral sources such as the plays "Quan Am Thi Kinh", "Luu Binh Duong Le", "Thai Su", "Tri Cao", "Tri Dung", "Thien Su" with content promoting morality and intelligence, while also showing the influence of Buddhism in Tran Dynasty society. The play "Bach Ho" is related to legends and legendary characters with magical details, reflecting the religious life that existed in Tran Dynasty society. Cheo plays appearing during the Tran Dynasty are rich in historical, moral and legendary elements.
During the Nguyen Dynasty (1802 - 1945), Cheo plays were composed and performed, witnessing the development and refinement of Cheo, with many plays bearing contemporary cultural and social characteristics. At the same time, reflecting the cultural transformation under the influence of the French colonial period in the late 19th century, Cheo faced many challenges due to the introduction of Western forms of entertainment and the policy of suppressing ethnic culture by French colonialists. However, Cheo was still maintained in the villages and became a symbol of traditional cultural vitality.
During this period, there were plays such as "Luu Binh - Duong Le", "Cung Tuc", "Dai Nghiep" with epic content, telling about historical events and figures of the Nguyen Dynasty, combining historical elements and performing arts, helping the audience better understand the history and contributions of the Nguyen Dynasty to the country. The play "Kim Nham" is one of the outstanding works in the treasure trove of ancient Vietnamese Cheo, loved by the audience because of its meaningful content, telling about the life and conflicts surrounding the character Kim Nham, reflecting the ethical values and outlook on life in Vietnamese feudal society. The Cheo plays of the Nguyen Dynasty demonstrated the development of Cheo art and the cultural, social and political values of the Nguyen Dynasty. The Cheo plays of this period are valuable cultural assets that contribute to the maintenance and development of Cheo art.
After the August Revolution in 1945, the art of Cheo was revived and developed more strongly, with the support of the State. Many professional Cheo troupes were established, and Cheo artists were trained systematically. Many new Cheo plays were composed to reflect modern life and social changes. In the context of developing social life, the art of Cheo still reflects an important role in preserving and promoting traditional cultural values.
Cheo performances are not only a form of entertainment, but also an opportunity for the community to connect, exchange , and convey moral and humanistic values.
From village cheo to modern stage
Over time, chèo developed into a professional form of theatre with clearly scripted performances. While traditional chèo remains popular, modern versions have emerged to appeal to audiences. These adaptations include new scripts, modern themes, and innovative staging techniques while still retaining the core elements of chèo.
Nowadays, the art of Cheo is preserved and developed, many Cheo troupes are operating both domestically and internationally. Cheo content has improvements in staging and performance techniques, but still retains traditional values. Cheo festivals and Cheo art competitions are held regularly to honor and spread this art form. Modern Cheo plays, which are Cheo works that are composed or adapted, often have innovative elements in content, performance form, and approach to the theme. Modern Cheo can reflect contemporary and social issues, while applying new artistic elements.
Some typical Cheo plays such as "Cheo and Dream" are innovative in content and form, combining traditional and modern elements, creating a fresh approach for the audience. "Nguoi Tu Troi Roi" explores modern social issues and conflicts in urban life, written with a combination of humorous and satirical elements. "Chuyen Chua Gioi Gen" is inspired by historical stories but is renewed to reflect contemporary issues such as social division and changes in modern society.
The play "The Latecomers" brings a message about cultural transition and changes in social life, including stories about the adaptation and struggles of new generations. "The Dance of Reform" combines traditional elements with modern performance styles, focusing on the issue of reform and innovation in society. The play "Cheo in the New World" focuses on the themes of technology, globalization, and changes in social relationships, providing new perspectives on modern factors affecting traditional culture. Modern Cheo plays often demonstrate creativity and innovation, attracting the attention of young audiences and creating new experiences in traditional Cheo art.
Promoting the value of folk rowing: From preservation to creation
Traditional Cheo clearly reflects the values, customs, habits and lifestyle of the Vietnamese people. Preserving Cheo helps to preserve and pass on traditional cultural, historical and artistic values to future generations. Especially the significance of maintaining and promoting national identity in the context of globalization. This is an effective means of education, helping the younger generation understand and appreciate more about the history and culture of the nation. Thereby, arousing pride and responsibility in protecting cultural heritage.
In the modern context, Cheo mats face many challenges, such as changes in lifestyle, the emergence of new forms of entertainment, and a shortage of young artisans. To preserve and develop Cheo mats, support from authorities at all levels, cultural organizations, and active participation from the community is needed. Activities such as organizing Cheo festivals, training young artisans, and promoting Cheo mats in the media are essential.
The octagonal group in folk opera.
According to cultural researchers, to effectively preserve folk Cheo, it is necessary to include Cheo in the curriculum of high schools and universities so that students have the opportunity to be exposed to and understand the art of Cheo; organize Cheo classes for all ages, from children to adults, to teach Cheo singing, dancing, and acting skills; record and film Cheo performances for archiving and widely disseminating, helping people easily access and learn about Cheo; collect and store documents, books, tapes, and discs related to Cheo, including scripts, songs, and research documents.
Preserve through practice, through creating conditions for Cheo troupes to perform regularly, in big cities and rural areas, so that Cheo is always alive and close to the people. Integrate Cheo performances into local festivals and cultural events to create opportunities for people to enjoy and participate in this art form. At the same time, it is necessary to build a Cheo-loving community, through organizing Cheo-loving clubs and groups, creating playgrounds for people to participate, perform and learn about Cheo. Build an online community for Cheo lovers, where they can exchange, share and learn experiences.
The State needs to continue to have appropriate financial support policies for artists, Cheo troupes, as well as Cheo preservation and development projects. At the same time, it calls for support from organizations, businesses and individuals in preserving and promoting Cheo.
Cheo also plays an important role in developing cultural tourism. Cheo performances in villages, festivals, or community events are attracting domestic and foreign tourists, thereby generating economic revenue. The development of Cheo art creates career opportunities for many artists, musicians and cultural workers. This not only helps maintain traditional art but also improves the economic life of the people. These measures, when implemented synchronously and effectively, will contribute to preserving and promoting folk Cheo, so that this art form continues to develop and last through time./.
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