Speaking at the ceremony, Truong Quang Hai, Deputy Director of the Department and head of the festival’s organising committee, said the Then singing and Tinh lute tradition is a unique art form that embodies the spiritual life, folk knowledge and cultural identity of the Tay and Nung ethnic communities.

The Organizer hands over souvenir flag to participating troupes.

Its melodies and lyrics express aspirations for peace and prosperity and convey values of humanity passed down through generations.

In recent years, clubs dedicated to Then singing and Tinh lute performance have been established in areas with ethnic minority populations, while veteran artisans have devoted efforts to training younger generations, helping to preserve the heritage in modern life.

The performance of Bien Dong communal art troupe.

The festival aims to honour a tradition recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, promote preservation activities and create a platform for exchange among artisans and performers. It also supports the province’s “All people unite to build a cultural life” movement.

Each participating troupe presents a 30-minute programme featuring four to five pieces, including traditional and modernised Then melodies, solo and ensemble Tinh lute performances, dance segments and short re-enactments of ritual practices.

The performance of Luc Ngan communal art troupe.

The opening night featured performances by troupes from Luc Ngan, Bien Dong and Son Hai communes. Competitions continue on November 27, with the closing scheduled for the afternoon.

Officials said the event helps strengthen community engagement, promote the cultural image of the Tay and Nung people, and create opportunities to integrate traditional performing arts into cultural tourism.

It is also part of Vietnam’s national programme for preserving ethnic minority cultures for 2021–2025 and reflects commitments to safeguarding the “Practices of Then by the Tay, Nung and Thai” heritage.

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