(VOVworld) The central province of Quang Nam has been successful in bringing traditional folklore arts closer to the public. Visitors to the ancient town of Hoi An will be amazed with traditional arts being performed right on the streets, including traditional music shows, folk games and bai choi or singing while playing cards.

Bai Choi is renovated and played in an ancient street of Hoi An

The provincial cultural authorities in Quang Nam have tried to revive the traditional art forms in local community for many years while the younger generation was less interested in the folk arts. Director of Hoi An town’s cultural and spots centers, Vo Phung, said many initiatives have been experimented: “We have organized contests for those art forms since the 1980s. We’ve integrated them into school curriculum for 5 years. Several schools have selected some art forms to open extra courses. Young people have joined tours to watch folk music performances and traditional games.”

Vo Phung said Bai Choi has been renovated and played in ancient streets frequently: “Previously, Bai Choi was played within the community. We have brought the game to the streets for visitors to explore, which makes the game known to many others. The game has been played more often during festivals and receptions of VIP guests. Players from other provinces have joined us. We even brought the game to Italy last year.      

Vo Phung said he was pleased to see more young people come to learn Bai Choi singing, many of them from other parts of the country. This is thanks to the support of the provincial mass organizations of women, elderly and youth: “Many young people enjoy this traditional art and folk music. We have tried to respect the originality and unique features of the art while making full use of modern lighting and sound techniques. More folk rhythms have been added to Bai Choi singing to make it less boring.”

 Director of the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Dinh Hai says the traditional art form has found its way to develop through community activities: “The festive culture and art are still attractive to the public. We must return the festival to the community and the state should not play an organizing role. The State just gives guidance and management so that the festival serves its community and truly reflects local unique values.”

The revitalization of these art forms help Quang Nam attract more visitors and become a source of pride for local people.

 Lan Anh