The 5 Best Theatres in Vietnam to Watch Fun and Educational Live Shows
Looking to ditch the popular sightseeing spots like the Hạ Long Bay and the Củ Chi Tunnels while in Vietnam? Well, you’re right on track!
Theatres in Vietnam—aside from providing entertainment—preserve and celebrate the rich history of the country. You’re guaranteed to leave feeling enriched, inspired, and cultured.
So if you love music, history, or performance art, you might want to check out these places!
| How much do theatre shows cost in Vietnam? Theatre shows in Vietnam usually cost around 200,000 VND to 1,470,000 VND, depending on the show and seat. |
1. Saigon Opera House
Address: 07 Công trường Lam Sơn, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh
Phone: 0968..09.51.51
Hours:
- Monday to Friday 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
- Saturday and Sunday 9:00 am – 11:30 am
Often referred to as the “Art Cathedral” by many artists, the Saigon Opera House is a popular venue for cultural and artistic activities. These include traditional Vietnamese operas, fashion shows, and contemporary shows like the A O Show and Teh Dar.
And not only that, the Saigon Opera House also has facilities for event organizing, movie screenings, photo shoots, and visual livestreams.
While the opera house is well-known for its beautiful French-inspired architecture, some visitors suggested that certain areas may need maintenance, as they appear a bit rundown.
However, that doesn’t stop people from marveling at the stunning design of the opera house—including us!
The Saigon Opera House is undeniably beautiful inside and out. Not to mention, the shows are quite entertaining.
Would love to return for another unforgettable performance!
A magical night at the Saigon Opera House! I had the pleasure of experiencing Berlin in Light here, and it was absolutely mesmerizing. The stunning architecture of the opera house, with its grand French colonial design, provided the perfect setting for an evening of jazz and artistic brilliance. The acoustics were fantastic, making every note feel rich and immersive. The ambiance was elegant yet welcoming, and the staff were professional and helpful. If you’re in Ho Chi Minh City and love the arts, this is definitely a must-visit venue.
Toon Tran, Google Reviews
This place is a masterpiece
This place, which is Ho Chi Minh City Opera, is an architectural masterpiece. I brought tickets to a show. I couldn’t film the show but it was amazingly good. They told us to come an hour earlier for a free short tour and they talked about how it was built. After that, they gave us a lemon peach tea. It was super delicious. You should totally check this place out.
Carlos Tovar, Google Reviews
2. Hanoi Opera House
Address: 1 Tràng Tiền, Phan Chu Trinh, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
Phone: +842439330113
Hours: Monday to Sunday 7:00 am – 5:00 pm
When you get inside the Hanoi Opera House, you’ll be greeted by a horseshoe-shaped auditorium with 598 seats spread across three floors. It was designed this way to make sure the best view and acoustics for the audience.
To top it all off, it has high-quality, French-style chairs and fireproof carpets.
When it comes to events, the opera house hosts cultural and artistic shows like ballet, opera, and Vietnamese shows. It also serves as a venue for conferences, seminars, and press conferences – often for the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism.
We understand that the Hanoi Opera House is one of the attractions that many visitors want to see. However, it’s important to note that access inside is restricted to ticket holders, and children under three years old are not permitted.
On the other hand, patrons consistently praise the opera house for the stunning architecture, comfortable seats, and entertaining shows.
Beautiful
The Hanoi Opera House is a must-see landmark that beautifully showcases French colonial architecture and Vietnam’s cultural heritage. Designed by French architects, this iconic building is a prime example of neoclassical elegance, with intricate details and grand facades that transport you to a bygone era. The interior is just as magnificent, with its ornate chandeliers, plush seating, and lavish decor creating an atmosphere of old-world charm. Attending a performance here is a magical experience, as the acoustics and ambiance truly enhance the artistry on stage.
Alan Nguyen, Google Reviews
Beautiful and historic!
Built in 1911, this stunning French colonial landmark is elegant and well-preserved. A must-visit for its architecture and cultural charm!
HC Lim, Google Reviews
3. Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
Address: 57B P. Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hàng Bạc, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
Phone: +842438249494
Hours: Monday to Sunday 9:00 am – 10:00 pm
Water puppetry is one of Vietnam’s ancient art forms that dates back to the 11th century, and Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre is among the few that showcase this unique art form.
The theatre hosts multiple shows daily, and visitors can get VIP seats if they want the best view. It’s advisable to arrive at least 30 minutes early, as late entries are not permitted.
The performances are generally inspired by Vietnamese folklore, like the “Rice harvest” and “The Legend of the Returned Sword.”
We’ve heard about the theatre’s performances and cultural significance. When we asked around, many expressed their admiration for the unique experience.
However, we noticed that the view can be difficult, especially further back in the theatre, due to the lack of elevation.
Nice
The Thang Long Water Puppet Show in Hanoi is a captivating cultural experience that offers a unique glimpse into Vietnam’s traditional art. Performed on a water stage, the show features intricately designed wooden puppets that dance, swim, and interact, all controlled by skilled puppeteers hidden behind a screen. The performance is accompanied by live traditional music, enhancing the vibrant atmosphere. The stories, often based on Vietnamese folklore, provide both entertainment and insight into the country’s rich history and culture. Ideal for all ages, this show is a must-see for anyone visiting Hanoi, offering a memorable blend of artistry and tradition.
Gopi Dev, Google Reviews
Great experience
I was unsure if I would enjoy a puppet show, but I decided to give it a try since it is recommended as a top attraction in Hanoi. It was very entertaining! The music is wonderful, the puppeteers do an amazing job, and it’s visually captivating. I didn’t need to know the words to appreciate the stories played out by the puppets. I recognized some of the folk tales in the scenes that our walking tour guide had told us the day before, so it made it even more enjoyable. I highly recommend getting tickets in person when you arrive in town.
Alicia Glassmeyer, Google Reviews
4. Hoi An Memories Land
Address: Cồn Hến, rẽ trái, 200 Nguyễn Tri Phương, Cẩm Châu, Hội An, Quảng Nam
Phone: +84904636600
Hours: Monday to Sunday 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Hoi An’s Memories Theatre hosts the ‘Real World Performance’, which showcases the 400-year-old story of Hoi An.
This live performance features over 500 actors and dancers on a 25,000-square-meter stage, wearing the traditional Vietnamese attire “áo dài” and using modern staging techniques, lighting technology, and audio effects.
The main show runs daily from 8:00 pm–9:30 pm, and the pre-show performances are scheduled between 4:00 pm–7:00 pm.
We can certainly attest to the entertaining performances the place produces. The shows were magical and worth watching—we couldn’t keep our mouths shut in awe.
On the flip side, the ticket prices are a bit on the higher side.
Breathtaking, mesmerizing, impeccable – words fail
A very special ‘must-see’ activity in Hoi An. There is a cast of a few hundred people, magnificent lighting and costuming as well as rehearsed movement, coordination and choreography. The show also takes advantage of creative set design including a large ship with huge sails that are utilized for video as well as colourful ‘row housing’, bursts of flame around the lake perimeter – and fireworks to end with.
Geoff Lewis, Google Reviews
Impressive
There is a cast of a few hundred people, magnificent lighting and costuming as well as rehearsed movement, coordination and choreography. With breathtaking choreography, impressive lighting, and immersive storytelling, Hoi An Memories Show is a must-see experience for visitors looking to understand the soul of this UNESCO-listed ancient town. It runs nightly at the Hoi An Impression Theme Park, offering a unique way to explore Vietnam’s history and traditions.
bao tram nguyen, Google Reviews
5. Vietnam National Tuong Theatre
Address: 51A P. Đường Thành, Cửa Đông, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
Phone: +84984545228
Hours: Monday to Sunday 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Over the past 66 years, Vietnam National Tuong Theatre has committed to preserve and promote “Tuồng”, a traditional Vietnamese classical drama form.
It combines dance and music with acrobatics and stunts to demonstrate and tell the story. And what’s great is that English subtitles are provided to make the performances inviting and convenient for foreign visitors.
After watching the show, we can say that we learned a lot about the art form. Not to mention, the theatre’s friendly staff made the experience comfortable and reassuring!
However, while the theatre is open daily for visitation, the performances are limited to twice a week.
Loved the scenography
The best performance I have seen in a while. It is a must in Hanoi. Artists are professional, music is mesmerising (20 different instruments!). And I loved the scenography made from bamboo, just right on the scene during the performance.
Modesta Kairyte, Google Reviews
Glad I checked it out
Sometimes going down the wrong street is just the beginning of something great. Jumped into a coffee shop for some respite from the heat and a Saigon Coffee. Watched the Theater from across the road and visited after a little second-hand cigarette smoke. A great little theater, and so a tip, you can pay outside for what you can afford. The Theater has some great displayed costumes, weapons, and masks. I watched the Lune production Lang Toi (My Village), honestly, the best show of seen on this side of a Movie, TV, or Theater Screen. The timing, show, and location couldn’t have been better.
Jeremy Damstra, Google Reviews