The gala was organized in Hoi An city (Quang Nam province) on December 8 by Hoi An city’s Center for Culture and Sports to congratulate the art of Bai Choi in Central Vietnam on being recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of humanity by UNESCO.
The art of Bai Choi attracts viewers.
The event aimed not only to express the pride in a kind of folk art but also to honour the contributions of Bai Choi artists in Hoi An city.
Young and old artists participate in Bai Choi performances
The art of Bai Choi in Central Viet Nam is a diverse art combining music, poetry, acting, painting and literature. There are two main forms: Bai Choi games and Bai Choi performances. Bai Choi games involve a card game played in bamboo huts during the Tet holiday (Lunar New Year). In Bai Choi performances, male and female artists called Hieu perform on a sedge mat, either moving to and fro between places or on private occasions of families. The bearers and practitioners of Bai Choi are Mr. and Ms. Hieu, solo Bai Choi performers, card-making artisans.
Giving Bai Choi cards.
The art of Bai Choi has long since been a cultural activity and entertainment in local communities. Performers and their families play an important role to protect this kind of art by teaching the skills of singing, performances and the way to make Bai Choi cards for young people.
At the Bai Choi gala.
A way to exclaim in Bai Choi song.
Bai Choi is a unique tourism product of Hoi An city, making visitors feel pleased. The art of Bai Choi is an integral activity in important events in Hoi An, especially in New Year.
Visitors’ happiness to gain flag in Ba Choi game.
Bai Choi is a familiar and spiritual dish to local people.
A couple in Bai Choi game.
Visitors feel happy to win award.
Leader of Hoi An city’s Center for Culture and Sports offers flowers to young Bai Choi artists
