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Do you want to explore Saigon through a cultural and artistic lens? Visit the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House, a symbol of Saigon's culture and arts. Discover exciting aspects of this tourist destination with BDATrip!
Constructed in 1898, also known as Opéra de Saigon, the theater is a creation of the famous architects Félix Olivier and Eugène Ferret. Its architecture beautifully blends ancient charm with modern conveniences, accommodating up to 800 seats. The theater's facade is adorned with intricate statues and patterns, especially the statue of Athena, symbolizing wisdom and art.
During historical upheavals, the theater temporarily housed French migrants in 1954 and later became the National Assembly building of the Republic of Vietnam. This function change caused architectural and cultural shifts, transforming from an artistic venue to a place for meetings, protests, and elections.
After the liberation of Saigon, the theater continued its artistic activities and was renamed the Ho Chi Minh City Symphony - Music and Dance Theater. In 1998, it was restored to its original architecture based on the plans of Félix Olivier and Eugène Ferret. In 2012, it was recognized as a national cultural-historical site, named Ho Chi Minh City Opera House.
Located at 7 Lam Son Square, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, near landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral, Independence Palace, Central Post Office, and Nguyen Hue Walking Street, the theater is an ideal cultural and historical destination. Accessible by various transportation means, it offers a convenient experience for exploring the heart of Ho Chi Minh City.
Experience unique culture at Ho Chi Minh City Opera House with flexible ticketing options. Tickets can be purchased at the box office, by phone, email, or online through the theater's official website. Agencies like Ticketbox and Ticketgo also offer tickets, with prices ranging from 200,000 to 1,500,000 VND depending on seat type and program.
The theater offers parking on-site and nearby. Parking fees start from 10,000 VND for motorcycles and 50,000 VND for cars. Open from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, visitors can plan their visit flexibly.
A late 19th-century French architectural gem, the theater shines with historical and cultural beauty. The combined efforts of architects Félix Olivier, Eugène Ferret, and Vietnamese artisans have created an impressive 800-seat artistic space with modern sound and lighting.
Its architecture captivates with elegant curves and artistic sculptures and inscriptions. Inside, the warm atmosphere features red leather seats, soft carpets, and delicate paintings. The U-shaped stage fosters intimacy between audience and performers.
The theater is not just an architectural focal point but also an important heritage site, witnessing historical and artistic events. Recognized as a national cultural-historical site in 2012, it has hosted French and Vietnamese art activities since its inauguration in 1898.
Visitors can enjoy unique architecture, exhibitions, cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops. Free guided tours by volunteers offer in-depth insights into its history, architecture, and art. Meeting artists and staff, visitors experience genuine artistic passion and dedication.
A O Show combines circus, dance, music, and lighting to portray Vietnamese culture. Performed by multi-talented artists, it offers a unique symphony of familiar Vietnamese objects and sounds, acclaimed internationally for its artistic representation of Vietnam.
"The Mist" reflects the life of Vietnamese farmers across seasons, using natural symbols like mist, rain, and sun, combined with traditional Vietnamese music. Premiered in 2017 by director Nguyễn Nhật Lý, it quickly gained international acclaim for its humanistic artistic value.
Opera Gala, featuring international artists and orchestras, is a premier cultural event. It showcases classical to modern works, including opera, ballet, symphony, musicals, and film music. Experience emotional performances by renowned opera singers and ballet dancers.
The theater showcases and preserves Vietnamese music from traditional to modern. Audiences enjoy folk music from ethnic groups and revolutionary songs by famous Vietnamese artists, alongside modern music blending Vietnamese and international styles.
Fans of classics like "Les Misérables," "The Phantom of the Opera," "Cats," and "The Lion King" will find the theater an unmissable destination. These masterpieces come alive through performances by top Vietnamese and international artists. Enjoy familiar melodies from singers like Duc Tuan, Thanh Lam, My Linh, and Hong Nhung, alongside captivating acting and dancing.
These classic musicals at the theater are not only artistic events but also cultural landmarks for special occasions like anniversaries and holidays. Collaborations with global producers like Cameron Mackintosh and Andrew Lloyd Webber, and Disney, create impressive shows that attract wide audiences.
To ensure the best artistic experience at Ho Chi Minh City Opera House, remember:
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before showtime for parking, ticket collection, and seating. Bring ID or passport for verification if needed.
- Wear respectful attire that reflects the artistic space of the theater. Avoid short, tight, flashy, or extravagant clothes to not disturb other patrons.
- Avoid using phones for calls, texting, photography during performances. Minimize talking, eating, unnecessary applause, and maintain order and respect for the art space.
- Follow the theater's guidelines, such as no weapons, prohibited substances, smoking, pets, or food.
After enjoying the art, visit nearby dining spots to savor Saigon's delicious cuisine:
- Phan Boi Chau Restaurant: Located at 6 Phan Boi Chau, about 10 minutes' walk from the theater. Specializing in Southern Vietnamese cuisine, it offers delicious dishes like cơm tấm, bún thịt nướng, bánh canh, and bánh xèo at reasonable prices.
- L’Opera Restaurant: An upscale Italian restaurant at 07 Lam Son Square, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. Enjoy exquisite dishes like pizza, pasta, risotto, and tiramisu, along with refreshing drinks while viewing the theater from afar.
- Theater Cafe: Within the theater premises, this café offers a cool, open space. Enjoy cold drinks like iced coffee, sugarcane juice, coconut water, smoothies, and various snacks.
Ho Chi Minh City Opera House is not just an architectural and cultural masterpiece but also a symbol of Saigon's elegance. Don't miss visiting the theater when in Saigon!
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