Folk Soul In Water Dance: Colors Of Water Puppetry

Water puppetry, a unique traditional art form of Vietnam, has existed and developed for centuries. This art form not only reflects the rich cultural life of the Vietnamese people but also carries profound spiritual values. Known as a symbol of the folk soul, water puppetry attracts viewers with its lively and colorful dances on the water. Water puppetry performances often take place on ponds, village ponds or on special stages with artificial lakes. The puppets, made of wood and painted with bright colors, are controlled by talented artisans hidden behind bamboo blinds. The artisans use long sticks and fishing lines to control the puppets, creating rhythmic and delicate movements. Through their skillful hands, the puppets come to life, telling folk tales, historical legends or joyful scenes of daily life.

Puppeteers behind bamboo blinds. Photo: Collected

Each water puppet show carries a profound message, often a lesson about humanity, patriotism or filial piety. These stories are conveyed through vivid images, the sounds of traditional musical instruments such as drums, flutes, monochords and narration in a warm voice. Viewers not only enjoy wonderful performances but also relive traditional cultural values ​​and humane moral lessons. One of the special features of water puppetry is the harmonious combination of art and nature. The water surface becomes a natural stage, reflecting light and creating magical effects, highlighting the liveliness of the puppets. This scene not only creates a unique artistic space but also brings a sense of closeness and familiarity with nature, as if the stories were taking place in people's lives.

A water puppet show. Photo: Vietnam+

Not only a form of entertainment, water puppetry is also considered an effective means of education. Through the stories told, children and adults learn moral, historical and cultural values. Water puppetry performances often attract large audiences, from children to the elderly, from locals to international tourists, all of whom are fascinated by the beauty and appeal of this art. Nowadays, water puppetry has gone beyond national borders, becoming an important part of international cultural exchange programs. Tours by Vietnamese water puppetry troupes to other countries have contributed to introducing and promoting this unique folk art to international friends. Thereby, water puppetry not only helps preserve and promote traditional cultural values ​​but also affirms the position of Vietnamese art in the international arena.

Water puppet show reenacts traditional rituals. Photo: Vietnam+

To preserve and develop water puppetry, many efforts have been made. Artisans constantly research, create and improve puppetry techniques, and at the same time train the younger generation to continue the tradition. Water puppetry performances have also been diversified, combined with other art forms to create more attractive and rich performances. Water puppetry is not only a unique art form but also a symbol of the Vietnamese folk soul. Dances on the water not only bring joy and laughter to viewers but also convey profound cultural and spiritual values. Preserving and developing water puppetry is an important task, contributing to preserving and promoting the nation's precious cultural heritage, bringing pride to the Vietnamese people.

Hoang Anh

Source: https://mega.vietnamplus.vn/mua-roi-nuoc-doi-song-tinh-than-huyen-ao-tren-mat-nuoc-5346.html