Duyet Thi Duong Theater Overview
Located within the Hue Imperial City, the Duyet Thi Duong Royal Theater is the oldest existing theater in Vietnam, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of traditional Vietnamese performing arts.
Built during the Nguyen Dynasty, it served as a prestigious venue for royal entertainment, hosting classical performances exclusively for the emperor, the royal family, and high-ranking officials. Nowadays, the theater continues to offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience the grandeur of Hue’s imperial performances.
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- Hue Imperial City Walking Tour– from 27 USD/ pax.
Hue Royal Theater History
Duyet Thi Duong was constructed in 1826 under the reign of Emperor Minh Mang as a dedicated space for Tuồng (classical Vietnamese opera) and other royal court performances.
It played a vital role in preserving and promoting Nha Nhac, the Vietnamese court music recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Over the years, it underwent several restorations to maintain its original architectural charm and historical significance.
The Duyệt Thị Đường Theater stopped operating right after August 1945. During the war years, it was heavily damaged. When the country was divided, the southern government changed the theater to be used as a teaching facility for the Hue National School of Music.
Moreover, between 1995 and 2002, the theater underwent a complete restoration and officially reopened for regular operations in March 2003. It is now managed by the Royal Traditional Theater under the Hue Monuments Conservation Center.
Hue Royal Theater Location
Duyet Thi Duong Theater is situated in the southeast corner of the Hue Imperial City, within the Forbidden Purple City area, near Thai Hoa Palace and the Thieu Phuong Royal Garden. It is easily accessible to visitors exploring the UNESCO-listed Hue Citadel, making it a must-visit attraction for history and culture enthusiasts.
Duyet Thi Duong Theater Architecture
The theater embodies the elegance and sophistication of Nguyen Dynasty architecture, blending wooden structures with intricate carvings and vibrant lacquered designs.
The building is symmetrically structured, with a traditional curved roof and exquisitely detailed pillars, creating an opulent yet intimate atmosphere for performances.
The Entrance
Visitors are welcomed by an ornate entrance, a “three-door gate” decorated with dragon motifs, symbolizing power and prosperity. The central gate was only for the Emperors, the right gate for women or civil servants, and the left gate for men or military servants.
The Overall Setting
Duyệt Thị Đường was originally a large traditional house with a double-roof design. The roof had a unique curved shape and was covered with blue glazed tiles. The house had a rectangular shape, measuring 45.9 meters long and 34.5 meters wide.
Its original structure included four main rooms and two side rooms. The front of the house faced east, and there was a wide veranda around it, 2.8 meters wide. The foundation was made of bricks and sandstone blocks, while the floor was paved with bright red square tiles.
The Setting Inside
The Emperor’s seat is positioned in an arched space at the center of the second floor. In front of the arch, on both sides, hang two parallel verses written by Emperor Minh Mang. To the left and right of this area are designated seats for national guests. Court officials sat on couches placed on either side of the stage.
On the second floor, the royal family watched performances from a stage divided into three sections. The back section served as the backstage area, while the two side rooms were used by actors for dressing and costume changes in preparation for the performance.
Duyet Thi Duong Theater Stage
The stage is the centerpiece of the theater, designed with a high platform and decorated with golden motifs and red lacquered wood, reflecting the aesthetics of the Nguyen court.
The backdrop often features traditional scenery, complementing the elaborate costumes and performances of Tuồng actors. Acoustics were carefully considered in the design, allowing the sounds of Nha Nhac court music to resonate throughout the hall.
The ceiling
In the old days, the ceiling of the Hue Royal Theater was decorated with beautiful sun, the moon, the clouds, and the special constelations. These days, the restoration does not display the original setting; it is just a white ceiling.
Duyet Thi Duong Royal Theater Nowadays
These days, the Hue Royal Theater is not just a historical monument but an active cultural venue. It hosts daily performances of Hue’s royal arts, including Nha Nhac, Tuồng, and folk dances, providing visitors with an immersive experience of Vietnam’s imperial artistic traditions. The theater is a hub for cultural preservation, ensuring that these ancient performances continue to be appreciated by new generations.
The Entrance Ticket and Opening Hours
- Entrance Fee: Admission to the theater is included in the Hue Imperial City ticket, which costs around 200,000 VND for adults and 40,000 VND for children (at least 10 people/ performance).
Hue Royal Theater Performance Time
Performances are held several times a day, typically at:
- In the morning: From 10h00 to 10h35.
- In the afternoon: From 15h00 to 15h35.
Each show lasts about 30- 45 minutes, featuring Nha Nhac music, traditional dance, and Tuồng opera. The performances provide a captivating glimpse into the ceremonial and entertainment culture of Vietnam’s royal past.
Conclusion
Duyet Thi Duong Royal Theater stands as a testament to the grandeur and artistry of the Nguyen Dynasty. It is a must-visit attraction for those interested in Vietnam’s imperial history, traditional music, and performing arts.
Whether you’re exploring the Hue Citadel or seeking an authentic cultural experience, watching a performance at Duyet Thi Duong is a journey into the heart of Vietnam’s royal heritage.
