Thang Long Water Puppet Show and more after....

At the heart of the Old Quarter is the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater. We were going about our walk around town when we chanced upon a line of about 15-20 tourists. At first we didn't have any idea what the line was for, but later on we were happy to find out that it was actually for the Water Puppet show, which was one of the things we wanted to cross out in our to do's in Hanoi. This show is internationally acclaimed, and dates back to the 11th Century CE.

Guidebooks say that it's very hard to get tickets, and some have to reserve slots a day or two before. Everyday there are only two shows in the afternoon, and luckily, we caught a 3:30pm slot. It was still early so we had time to have our pho' lunch and a quick rest at the hotel (previous post) before going in to watch the show.

Tickets cost 60,000 VND each.


































The very talented artists and musicians performing at the stage.






































Script/lyrics were in Vietnamese but there was a list which said the titles of the different acts. The puppets didn't lack in action and expression so it was very easy to enjoy the show.
















































































































































































After the show, the puppeteers go out to greet the audience. They are of course met with lots of applause and admiration. It's truly amazing what they do.


















































We had a drink after the show as a refresher...
























The show was truly a feast for the senses. It didn't end for us there, for the hubbub in the streets of Hanoi was equally entertaining. Motorcycles were everywhere!!!






























































Another keepsake we wanted to take home with us were the embroideries. These could be mistaken for paintings but are actually handmade. We took home a few of these embroidered decor in different designs and sizes.



















































































We wanted to see the Catholic Church in the Old Quarter so we walked on before the sun went down. Its been a long day and thought it would be a nice stop before calling it a night.


















Across the church was the daily crowd of people having their beer or "bia"... They are seated in low stools and it looks like they're having a great time. :)



















There was this pizza restaurant we kept on passing, called "Pepperonis". Looked very appetizing so we just had to stop and have our dinner there!































D had the Bia Ha Noi...
























While I was loading up on some lactobacilli due to a stomach flu I was still recovering from... YES I got sick somewhere along the way!!! ;)
























Goodnight Hanoi!
















:)