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In its musical theaters and diverse nightlife, Hanoi’s cultural allure comes alive when the sun goes down. Productions showcasing traditional music and theater are a great way to delve into the spirit of Vietnam. With the multimillion-dollar restoration of the Opera House in the late 1990s, Hanoi's performing-arts scene reemerged. The imposing French-built arts palace hosts Vietnam's top traditional musicians and pop stars as well as the occasional Western performer. Elsewhere in the city, you can catch a performance of Vietnamese folk opera, traditional music, or enchanting water puppetry. If you want a peek at the results of years of Eastern European physical training, head to the circus at the northern edge of Lenin Park for Vietnam's version of the Cirque du Soleil.
This popular cultural show encompasses a wide variety of traditional Vietnamese folk and dance forms. Shows take place every Thursday evening at 8 pm and take audiences on a journey across the country from the steamy southern delta to the mountainous north with its minority tribe traditions. Expect colorful costumes and enthusiastic performers.
Hanoi Opera House, whose Vietnamese name translates into "House Sing Big," is worth a visit no matter what happens to be showing. This beautifully restored French building hosts regular classical music concerts, ballets, and Western and Vietnamese operas, plus a variety of singers. Check out the venue's website for details on upcoming shows, or purchase tickets at www.luneproduction.com
Operated by Institut Francais de Hanoi, L'Espace regularly screens world cinema as well as hosting an eclectic selection of cultural events.
Youth Theater, a 650-seat facility, is one of the larger theaters in the city and focuses mainly on contemporary drama, although music and dance are sometimes performed. About a dozen foreign theater groups perform here annually.
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