An event, “Dem hoang cung” (The courtly night), which promotes Vietnam’s “tuong” (classical opera) and offers interactive experiences for its audience, is set to take place in Hanoi tomorrow, Feb 26.

The event, to be held at Hong Ha Theater, is jointly put on by the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism and the Vietnam Tuong Theater.

According to Pham Ngoc Tuan, the theater director, during the first part of the event, which has English subtitles, audiences will relish in the splendid re-creation of the old-time Vietnamese court sessions, with the presence of the “king,” “queen,” “prince,” and “officials.”

Stage costumes, props, as well as instructions on how to make props and “tuong” basic techniques, will also be offered. Audience members can also join exchanges with the artists, find more about the excerpts they’re going to watch, and experience the art first-hand by actually taking part in the performances.

The main part of the event is dedicated to the enactment of the excerpts from famous “tuong” plays, which also feature English subtitles.

The event, which is held on a regular basis, aims to promote “tuong” to foreigners, rekindle locals’ interest in the time-honored art, and boost tourism.

Over the past ten years, the theater has offered two performances specifically for tourists every week. However, very few attended.

To improve the situation, starting in 2013, the theater launched new projects and stepped up cooperation with local tour operators to increase the number of tourists who attend their performances.

Tuong, also known as “hat boi,” is believed to be imported from China around the 13th century and was first performed in the royal court. Later on, the art was adapted and taken up by travelling troupes who entertained commoners and peasants.

The art employs stock characters who are easily recognizable from their make-up and costumes, which are typically very elaborate and rich in color.