The Opera House is considered one of the best theatres in Hanoi. Its building, a classic example of architecture from the French colonisation period, was built at the beginning of the last century on the model of the Paris Grand Opera House (in modern interpretation - Opera Garnier).
Transferring the Parisian style to the Vietnamese soil was not easy: shaky soils, a pond almost in the centre of the city. It had to be drained, and the soil was reinforced with a huge number of bamboo poles. But the majestic building in neobarochnoe style became a true jewel of Hanoi. The theatre opened in 1911. It hosted famous Italian and French opera singers on tour at the invitation of the colonial administration. Subsequently, the theatre witnessed all major historical events, from street fights to political rallies during the period of the formation of the independent state.
After almost nine decades of use, the opera house has been restored. Its Italian marble floors, copper French chandeliers and mirrors, and ceiling frescoes shone with new colours. Three grand staircases connect the luxurious foyer with the auditorium on three levels with a capacity of 900 seats. After the reconstruction, the theatre has become the centre of the cultural life of the country. It has additional conference halls for various events. And in the huge foyer and courtyards, exhibitions and presentations are held.
The opera theatre is known for its diverse repertoire, as well as a variety of genres. It performs classical opera as well as Vietnamese opera - the inimitable "cheo". On stage, along with ballet performances and symphony orchestra concerts, you can see marionette shows and exotic national performances. The theatre hosts music festivals and tours of foreign musicians.
