Experiencing Vietnamese Culture at Its Finest: The A O Show at Saigon Opera House

Sandra Shinto

March 10, 2024

4 min read

 

Vietnam has a long and abiding foundation in the arts, just as in its history. The country’s artistic expression is due to the fusion of Chinese dominance and French colonization. Nonetheless, Vietnamese art forms have survived by adopting foreign influences and assimilating their best elements into their culture. It is now widely acknowledged that Vietnamese art has become a sought-after art form worldwide. As a visitor, if you are planning to explore the culture and art of the land, it is essential not to miss the significant art at the AO Show. The AO show is a must-see in Hoian and Saigon and features unique bamboo dance paired with traditional Vietnamese music and acrobatics combined with contemporary visual art. Since there are a lot of sought-after attractions and sites, traversing into the Vietnamese arts and experiencing the A O Show is one of the most fascinating things to do in Vietnam. Join Thrillark and make the most of your visit to Vietnam, experiencing its cultural heritage and glory.

The Majestic AO Show in Vietnam

The AO Show is one of the majestic shows in Hoian and Saigon. The stunning performance combines bamboo circus, aerobatics, and contemporary dance with Vietnamese music and theatrical visual art. The A O comes from the Lang Pho, which translates as village and city. The show vividly portrays the traditional charm of Vietnamese rural life and the bustling urbanization of the country. The one-out show will definitely transport you into the heart of Vietnam’s art and emotional heritage, leaving you in awe of the skill and creativity of the performers. The A O Show is performed in 2 famous tourist attractions of Vietnam: Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). 

A O Show’s Features

Vietnamese Bamboo Circus

The A O Show is a mesmerizing performance that combines storytelling with unique live music and the creative use of bamboo. The stunning show is produced by daring acrobatics, contortion, juggling, and stunts that are framed by bamboo props. The performers use a wide range of props, including enormous woven baskets, bamboo sticks, and silky, flexible ropes. The audience is treated to an awe-inspiring performance that effectively and seamlessly blends martial arts, acrobatics, dance, and circus. It is a breathtaking experience that will leave you in awe of the performers’ skill and creativity.

 

A delicate touch of humor

A O show points out the contrasting sides of rural and urban civilizations of Vietnam  in a sarcastic way. Portraying the culture using amusing way with funny body language and gestures makes the show more engaging and interesting for the audience, so much so as to break a laugh. The charming and endearing tone of the show captures the essence of Vietnam, making it truly heartwarming and satisfying.

 

The contrasting culture 

The popular  AO showcases the stark contrast between the tranquilly of rural and urban life in Vietnam. It explores the cross between cultures , traditions, modernity , and lifestyle. It also explores the struggle between overpopulation and the need for privacy, and much more. The show also highlights the beautiful and mesmerising side of the countryside with their vivid depictions of activities like crossing a monkey bridge, picking flowers , singing, joking, and enjoying the season. On the other hand, they also brought life to the street culture, busting the traditional Vietnamese culture of urban Vietnam. It’s incredible how the program can depict such a varied and nuanced picture of Vietnam through the eyes of an insightful observer with a strong affinity for the nation.

AO Show Performance Venues

The Saigon Opera House

The A O Show is a mesmerising performance featuring the contrasting culture of the city through a bamboo circus with a blend of contemporary elements. And what makes it even more special is the venue where it takes place—the 121-year-old Old Saigon Opera House, situated in Ho Chi Minh City. Constructed by the French in 1898, it stands as a monument to the historical heritage of the city. Saigon Opera House, also known as Municipal Theatre, is located right in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. The building is set 2 metres above the street surface, and its two doorways help to prevent traffic noise from entering. In fact, the century-old Saigon adds even more charm to the visitors watching the show, and it also makes it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and culture.

 

Hoi An Lune Center

The ancient town of Hoi An boasts of the first and only bamboo theatre in Vietnam – the Hoi An Lune Center. This theatre was constructed to host local art performances, and it is the proud home of the Vietnamese Bamboo Circus, which is renowned worldwide. The Lune Center is characterized by a bamboo dome that is 13m high and 24.2m wide. The use of traditional building materials like bamboo and wood gives this theatre a unique and charming appearance that blends perfectly with the scenic Hoi An surroundings. Regardless of where you sit, you are guaranteed a good view of the stage, thanks to the theatre’s unique design and size.

Essential Information for Visitors

  • You will receive a confirmation email and voucher after booking for the show.
  • Visitors is supposed to present either a printed or digital voucher for the activity.
  • The voucher is vivid for the specified date and time of the show. 
  • Be seated for 15 minutes before the show starts. 
  • Taking a taxi or hiring a private vehicle to reach the theatres is recommended.
  • The show is restricted to children ages 0–4. 
  •  No food or drinks are allowed inside the theatre. 
  •  No photography or videography during the show.  
  •  Respect performers and maintain a quiet atmosphere. 
  •  Visitors is supported in following the ushers’ instructions. 
  •  Relax and enjoy the show.

 

Show Details and Timings

  • The Saigon Opera House

Address: No. 07 Cong Truong Lam Son, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Capacity: 468 seats

  • Hoi An Lune Center’

Address: No. 1A Nguyen Phuc Chu Street, Hoi An City, Quang Nam
Capacity: 299 seats

  • Show Timing: 18:00 (6:00 PM).
  • Duration: Approximately 60 minutes.

 

 

Unmissable Vietnamese Experience

If you’re planning to see some amazing culture and art during your visit to Vietnam, you absolutely can’t miss the A O Show. This fantastic show is a must-see in both Hoian and Saigon and features a mix of traditional Vietnamese music, acrobatics, bamboo circus, and contemporary visual art. y. Whether you watch it at the Saigon Opera House or the Hoi An Lune Center, you are guaranteed a fantastic time. So, don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to witness Vietnamese culture at its finest. Join Thrillark today and make your trip to Vietnam even more memorable!

FAQs on the A O Show at Saigon Opera House

How long is the AO show in Saigon?

1 hour

 

What is the meaning of the AO show?

The meaning of  A O  show is village and city. À Ố Show is one of the Vietnamese Bamboo Circus performances. À Ố – derives from Làng Phố, which means ‘village and city’. 

 

What to wear to Ho Chi Minh opera house?

 There is no dress code for visiting the opera house. Most guests dress smart casual, avoiding trainers and flip flops (thongs to the Aussies.)

 

What is the acrobatic show in Vietnam?

The AO Show in Ho Chi Minh City is a mesmerizing display of Vietnamese culture and art. Combining traditional music, acrobatics, and dance, the performers create a stunning spectacle that captivates the audience from start to finish.

 

How many seats are there in the Saigon Opera House?

500 seats. In 1943 some of this decoration was removed, but a portion was restored by the city government for the 300th anniversary of Saigon in 1998. Today the capacity of the opera house is 500 seats. 

If writing compels action, then words echo louder than footsteps, revealing the triumphs of the journey. Each word is a guidepost, unlocking the enchantment of exploration.

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