In addition to traditional dances that have been preserved and promoted, young artists have introduced both domestic and foreign audiences to contemporary works inspired by the quintessence and traditional cultural identities of Vietnam during its process of exchange with the world. The ballet entitled “Kieu” by choreographer Nguyen Tuyet Minh, inspired by the literary masterpiece of the great poet Nguyen Du, left an indelible impression on artistic life last year. The dance combines the techniques of western classic ballet and contemporary dance with the folk dances of Vietnam. Symphonic and contemporary music are harmonised with Ca Tru (ceremonial singing) and hat xam (ballads sung by wandering blind musicians) in the ballet performance. Recently, dancer Vu Ngoc Khai, who was trained in the Netherlands, has become a favourite. After he returned to Vietnam, he came closer to the public through dance pieces entitled “Suong som” (Morning Dew), “Moc” (Rusticity) and “Tich tac” (The tick). In particular, the contemporary dance piece “Day gieng” ( Bottom of the Well), choreographed and performed by himself, surprised audiences with the sound of Binh Dinh war drums that heretofore only appeared in traditional art as well as images of non la (conical hats) and flower-shaped mats. In addition, movements simulating the folk games of cockfighting and buffalo fighting became special features of the dance. An artwork in the project “From tradition to tradition” Folk materials have also been the inspiration for contemporary music. The public enjoyed traditional music forms such as Chau Van (spiritual singing), Tuong (classical drama) and Cheo (traditional opera) in shows entitled “Gio” (Wind) and “Lua” (Fire) by pianist Pho An My and musician Dang Tue Nguyen. The feature dialogue between piano and traditional musical instruments. The symphony orchestra Seaphony gathered over 50 artisans and instrumentalists from many regions around the …
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