Continuing rehearsals to reinstate traditional “Giao Duyen” singing performances for visitors to Ha Long Bay

On 19 January, Ha Long Bay Conservation Center 2 (under the Ha Long Bay – Yen Tu World Heritage Site Management Department) conducted an inspection of the maintenance and practice of Giao Duyen (traditional antiphonal folk singing) among performers providing cultural performances for tourists at the Cua Van Floating Cultural Center.

The programme was directed by Mr. Dinh Sy Nguyen, Deputy Head of the Ha Long Bay – Yen Tu World Heritage Site Management Department.

The subjects of the inspection were staff members currently working with the Cua Van Team under Ha Long Bay Conservation Center 2, who had previously participated in Giao Duyen singing transmission and training courses organized by the authorities. The inspection was conducted through performances by singing pairs (one male and one female), presenting repertoire in accordance with the content of the 2024 capacity-building and transmission programme for contemporary Giao Duyen singing.

The results of the inspection indicated that the singing pairs generally maintained a stable performance level; however, occasional lapses in lyrics and inaccuracies in pronunciation were observed.

In preparation for the resumption of Giao Duyen singing performances for visitors, Mr. Dinh Sy Nguyen, Deputy Head of the Ha Long Bay – Yen Tu World Heritage Site Management Department, requested that Ha Long Bay Conservation Center No. 2 standardize the performance procedures and continue to implement a structured rehearsal plan; procure appropriate uniforms and props for the Giao Duyen performers; and coordinate with relevant departments under the Management Department to develop a programme and action plan to ensure the resumption of Giao Duyen singing performances at the earliest opportunity, prior to March 2026.

He further emphasized that the Giao Duyen performers serving visitors play a vital role in transmitting and introducing the distinctive cultural traditions of the Ha Long Bay fishing communities to visitors, particularly international tourists.

In 2017, the Giao Duyen folk singing programme was introduced for performances serving visitors at the Cua Van Floating Cultural Center. However, in September 2024, due to the devastating impact of Typhoon Yagi, the Cua Van Floating Cultural Center suffered severe damage to its physical infrastructure. As a result, Giao Duyen singing performances were temporarily suspended.

With the close attention and strong guidance of the leadership of the Ha Long Bay – Yen Tu World Heritage Site Management Department, the Giao Duyen singing performances are expected to resume in the near future and continue to be warmly welcomed by visitors.

Huy Hoang