Chum Show – A Message of Love and Connection

Nhà hát Đó, part of the Libera Nha Trang complex developed by KDI Holdings, has officially premiered its latest commercial performance, Chum Show. Inspired by the image of the chum – a traditional Vietnamese earthen jar – the show carries symbolic meaning. In the language of some ethnic minorities in the South Central and Central Highlands regions, the word “chum” can also mean “kiss,” representing love, care, and human connection.

Following the success of Rối Mơ since 2023, Nhà hát Đó has staged Chum Show to meet the growing demand for high-quality artistic experiences among locals and tourists. With a runtime of nearly 40 minutes, Chum Show offers a fresh cultural production, highlighting the identity and distinctive traits of the people and land of Khánh Hòa. The performance draws on the historical and cultural depth of the Chăm community, the graceful and refined traditions of the Kinh people, and the free-spirited, resilient character of the Central Highlands ethnic groups. Through aerial circus acts, innovative choreography, and music, audiences are invited to experience a profound emotional resonance that bridges past and present, self and community, earth and sky.

“Chum Show was created as an organic, unhurried expression, not as a template. Our goal was not to produce flawless artists, but to craft a space where human emotions could be authentically expressed. Through the program, we aim to offer an artistic ‘kiss’ – a symbolic gesture of love, gentleness, and inner strength,” shared Ms. Ngô Thanh Phương, the show’s General Director.

Audiences of Chum Show experience three thematic acts: mythology; sacred connections between deities and humans; and the continuation of culture with blessings for the future. Using sound and lighting effects, the performance immerses viewers in the story of Bãi Tiên, a legendary gathering place of fairies passed down in local folklore. It is a land of natural beauty intertwined with traditional cultural values. Throughout the narrative, the chum serves as a central motif – a familiar object integral to daily life and spiritual practices in Vietnam – symbolizing the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. The harmonious combination of Chăm, Ê Đê, J’Rai, and Kinh folk dances with aerial silks and acrobatics enhances the program’s visual and emotional appeal.

The initial concept for Chum Show was developed over six months, with the creative team meticulously selecting performers, designing sets, crafting props, and implementing stage effects with a high level of creativity. Repeat viewers will notice ongoing innovations and unique rhythms. Each artist is encouraged to draw on personal life experiences, becoming co-creators of the performance. Notably, most performers are ethnic minority artists collaborating with professional performers, producing a multidimensional, richly layered work of art.

“After watching Chum Show, my family and I all felt the show delivered strong artistic quality, meaningful content, and a highly creative presentation. Its duration is suitable for tourists, and the ticket price of VND 250,000–350,000 makes it accessible for local residents as well,” shared Ms. Lê Giang from Bắc Nha Trang Ward.

Thanks to these creative efforts, Nhà hát Đó is steadily establishing itself as a recognized cultural brand and a must-visit destination in Khánh Hòa. Through Rối Mơ and Chum Show, audiences appreciate the dedication and responsibility of the artists, who strive to authentically showcase the local cultural heritage in the most impressive way possible.