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A traveller who shakes his head at the disappearance of local culture in Vietnam should think twice about it once he sets foot in Hanoi. This atmospheric city which will celebrate its 1000th birthday in 2010 has a seal of cultural influence on almost everything it has in offer, even in the enchanting light hearted comedy presented through intricately skilled puppetry. Water puppetry is unique to Northern Vietnam, originated in the rice-farmer folk culture. Puppets that dance in shallow pools of foggy water accompanied by voices and folklore music present skillful and realistic theatrical items. This family friendly treat can be experienced at Thang Long Water Puppet Theater in Hanoi.

The storylines of these theatrical performances will include the tale of the Hoan Kiem Lake Turtle and the establishment of ancient Hanoi. Audiences will continue to laugh with delight throughout the act when they see the truly amazing miniature villagers dancing around and dragons slithering across the surface of the water. Although the characters converse in Vietnamese language, it does not hinder the enjoyment of the viewer as the story is comprehensible through their gestures. In the end the audience will be given a sense that they were watching live characters onstage. Water puppetry art is a compelling form of ancient stagecraft as the characters, presented in the form of puppets are commute with nature. The puppet figures are simple and rough sculpture works of vibrant colour, moving back and forth over the water. The liquid feature and the flickering reflections would enthrall the audience. The music and innovative fireworks will add on to the effective performance.

Targeting Hanoi accommodation with easy access to the theatre (to avoid disappointment in finding that the tickets are sold off, as is often the case), would be wise. Somerset Hoa Binh is one of the most preferred places offering Hanoi serviced apartments for business and leisure travelers. This luxurious hotel is a 20 minute drive from the Noi Bai Airport and also gives guests easy access to key city districts like Hoan Kiem and Ba Dinh. Other popular tourist attraction such as the Hanoi Fine Art Museum, Old Quarter, Hanoi Opera House and Hoan Kiem Lake are also close by.

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