Ca Tru

Ca Tru, a traditional Vietnamese folk art, it emerged as a form of entertainment during the Ly dynasty and gained popularity as a genre. Ca Tru meaning "singing for reward." Historically performed in inns, communal houses, and private homes, ca tru was most enjoyed by scholar-bureaucrats and elite members of society. Its allure lay not only in the captivating vocal performances but also in the intellectual conversations, poetic knowledge, and serving skills of the talented young women who entertained the guests.

Ca Tru performances feature a female vocalist playing the phach percussion while demonstrating her vocal abilities. The lute player accompanies her with the đàn đáy instrument, and a spectator strikes the trống chầu drum to express approval or disapproval. The singer's gestures and the sound of castanets add to the artistry of ca tru.

The genre was submitted to UNESCO in 2005, resulting in its recognition as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Cultural Heritage. Today, ca tru has experienced a resurgence, with clubs and festivals dedicated to its preservation. Ca tru stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam and continues to captivate audiences with its unique blend of music, poetry, and performance.

a genre of Vietnamese folk music originating from Bac Ninh province, is characterized by alternating groups of female and male singers engaging in musical challenges and responses

a traditional stage performance originating in the northern countryside of Vietnam, encompasses the essence of folk ballads and proverbs

a traditional Vietnamese theatrical form that combines songs, dances, and dramatic actions, characterized by stylized gestures and the use of rhyme and storytelling techniques

a captivating form of modern folk opera that originated in Southern Vietnam in the early 20th century and gained popularity during the 1930s as a theatre form embraced by the middle class during the French colonial era