According to Mr. Nguyen Hong Son, the author of the photo series - a culture enthusiast currently living in Hanoi, this art form not only carries a strong national identity but also contains profound spiritual values, connecting viewers with a mysterious spiritual world.
Puppetry is not only a performance, but also a religious ritual, where art blends with the spirituality and beliefs of the people.
A performance full of finesse and skill
Mr. Son's first impression when witnessing the puppet show was the skill and sophistication in the way the artisans controlled the puppets. He shared: "Each puppet seems to have its own soul, lively and full of ancient folklore." The puppets, although made of heavy wood, still move gracefully and flexibly, as if they could come to life every time they are controlled by the talented hands of the artisans.
The moment the artisan controls the puppets with skill and dexterity, making them seem to have their own souls, alive among the music and sacred drum beats
The special thing about the Chau Thanh puppet show is not only its skillful technique but also its sacredness. In the solemn space of Keo Pagoda, where each statue of the saint and the soul of the heroes are honored, the puppet show becomes a ritual, a respect for the gods. Mr. Son commented: "The Chau Thanh puppet show brings a solemn and profound feeling, as if you are attending a religious ceremony".
Historical and spiritual stories through each puppet
Chau Thanh puppetry (also known as Oi Loi puppetry) is an art form originating from Nam Dinh province, associated with the worship of the Saint Zen Master Tu Dao Hanh. This is a unique art form, where the puppets are not simply performing objects, but "holy statues" with each head carrying a historical story, a spiritual symbol of the nation. "Each puppet head has its own story, associated with the history and spirituality of the nation, the soul of Vietnamese culture," Son explained.
Close-up of a wooden "holy statue" with delicate carvings, expressing the spirit and style of traditional puppetry.
When the artists perform, they do not simply control the puppets but also perform reverent rituals, such as burning incense, dressing the statues, praying for peace and happiness. This is what makes the Chau Thanh puppet show different from other folk art forms.
Youth and puppetry in worship of the Saint
Although the Chau Thanh puppetry has maintained its traditional value through many generations, according to Nguyen Hong Son, attracting young people today is a big challenge. He believes that specific measures are needed to preserve and promote this art, such as strengthening education and dissemination in schools, using technology to promote it, as well as organizing practical experience activities for young people to have the opportunity to participate.
"Incorporating puppetry into extracurricular activities, or combining it with modern art forms, will help young people have easier access to this art form," said Mr. Son. He also emphasized the importance of working together between the community and cultural institutions in protecting and developing traditional art.
People attentively watch the puppet show to pay homage to the Saint.
Puppetry - a living museum of Vietnamese culture
Chau Thanh puppetry is not only a performing art, but also an indispensable part of the cultural and religious life of local people. Mr. Nguyen Tien Dung, a 70-year-old artisan and Head of the Dai Bi Pagoda Puppetry Association, shared that this is an art form with profound value, not only in preserving culture but also in connecting people with history and spirituality.
Since being recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage, Chau Thanh puppetry has continued to develop and spread, becoming the pride of not only local people but also the entire community of Vietnamese folk culture lovers.
Artists perform puppetry in the sacred space of Keo Pagoda
With the perfect combination of art and spirituality, the Chau Thanh puppet show is a vivid demonstration of the richness and diversity of Vietnamese culture. Anyone who has ever participated in the festival at Keo Pagoda will surely never forget the feeling of being immersed in that sacred space, where each movement of the puppets contains a story full of hidden meanings about the country and people of Vietnam.
