Review
A O is a welcome break from the cliched "cultural" stuff that tends to find its way into most Vietnam travel itineraries. It may not be cliché free, but it has plenty more to offer too.The success of A O means that there are now a number of similarly inspired shows playing at the Saigon Opera House - all from the same production company.
A O is an hour of pure fun with acrobatics, dance, theatre and music based around Vietnam's transition from rural to urban life.
Photo: Mark BowyerRehearsal, A O
A team of mainly expatriate Vietnamese artists are behind A O. The Director, Tuan Le, lived in Germany for much of his life and his past includes a stint with Cirque du Soleil.
Photo: Mark BowyerA O Director, Tuan Le
Bamboo is a core feature of Vietnamese rural life. And bamboo is the delightfully simple foundation for the collection of props around which the A O performance unfolds.
Photo: Mark BowyerA O
Live traditional music accompanies A O's parade of visual treats. It's a great way for the uninitiated to experience some of the wonderful melodic twists of Vietnamese music and adds spontaneity and vitality to the show.
A O's most infectious feature is the exuberant energy of its young cast. That energy is bursting off the stage throughout the show.
A O seems to mark something of a new development in the way Vietnam projects itself to the world. And for that reason, I hope it succeeds. It's definitely a worthwhile inclusion to a stay in Saigon and it's great for families too. Take a look.
My Village - Lang Toi, another show, also from Lune Productions, is a more atmospheric piece. Also highly recommended.
Ho Chi Minh City Opera House
Ho Chi Minh City Opera House is one of the city's most noteworthy French colonial buildings. Built at the turn of the twentieth century at the height of the French colonial presence in Vietnam, it became the National Assembly of the US aligned South Vietnamese Government until the fall of Saigon in 1975. After 1975, it became a theatre again and was restored in 1998.
Photo: Mark BowyerSaigon's historic Opera House.
Travel tips
A O is on the expensive side for a Vietnamese cultural performance - but it's a unique and immensely enjoyable experience. It's suitable for all ages - great family entertainment. Unfortunately, there doesn't seem to be a family ticket available at this time.
Tickets with full stage view start at 890,000VND. Keep an eye out for special prices.
Check the website above for details of show dates and times. The show moves between a location nearby the airport - not very convenient for travellers - and the Opera House and now also alternates with other similarly inspired shows.
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