The Hai Phong Opera House, officially recognized as the Municipal Theater, is a significant architectural and historical landmark situated in the heart of Hai Phong City, Vietnam's third-largest urban center. Constructed in the early 20th century, it is one of only three French-style theaters built in Vietnam, alongside the Hanoi Opera House and the Saigon Opera House. Dating back to 1904, this neoclassical building holds national importance for its artistic design and its role in numerous revolutionary events for both Hai Phong and the broader country. Beyond its historical weight, the structure also preserves considerable cultural and artistic heritage.
Historical Origins and Construction
According to records from the Hai Phong Museum, Hai Phong City was formally established on July 19, 1888, by a decree from the President of France, placing it on par with Hanoi and Saigon. During this period, French authorities actively developed Hai Phong Port. Following the construction of the port bridge between 1885 and 1887, the French implemented a drainage system on the Cam River, established warehousing facilities, and installed a navigation marker (Hon Dau) to guide vessels. By the close of the 19th century, Hai Phong had evolved into a key port and industrial hub in northern Vietnam.
Alongside the city's infrastructure, the French also erected cultural institutions to cater to the leisure needs of French capitalists, local mandarins, and the Vietnamese bourgeoisie. The increasing demand for artistic and cultural entertainment among these groups necessitated the construction of a dedicated theater. The Hai Phong Opera House's establishment was thus a logical progression. Building commenced in 1904 on the former market grounds of the ancient An Bien village and concluded in 1912. Its design drew inspiration from the Paris Opera House, replicating medieval French architectural styles. All construction materials were imported directly from France, with Vietnamese laborers working under the guidance of French architects. This location subsequently became the central point of Hai Phong City.
During the French colonial era, the Opera House functioned as a primary venue for political and cultural engagements for the French community and affluent local residents. Only renowned performing groups from France or prominent local ensembles were permitted to perform here, and ticket prices limited attendance to the wealthy. Despite undergoing several repairs over the years, the Hai Phong Opera House has largely retained its original architectural integrity. Today, it hosts various meetings, cultural performances, and entertainment events, particularly during significant city celebrations and national holidays.
Architectural Characteristics and Interior Design
The Municipal Theater today continues to showcase its French colonial architecture, featuring an ornate Gothic interior. Visitors can observe winding staircases, elaborate paintings adorning both floors and ceilings, and distinct Grecian design elements. The building comprises two levels, with a main performance hall equipped with 400 red plush seats. Additionally, it contains approximately 100 doors and windows, multiple corridors, a spacious lobby, a mirror room, a canteen, and ten meeting rooms furnished with impressive wooden pieces upstairs.
The auditorium's vaulted ceiling is particularly noteworthy, decorated with floral motifs and the names of celebrated European artists such as Mozart, Beethoven, and Molière. Outside the theater, a large public square extends, featuring water fountains, a well-maintained flower garden, and decorative lighting. Historically, a symbol depicting a Lia, an instrument crafted from elephant tusk with a tortoise shell base, held by Apollo (the deity of light, music, poetry, healing, and prophecy), adorned the main gate. Currently, images of the national red flag with a yellow star are displayed instead.
Historical Significance and Revolutionary Events
Under French colonial administration, the Opera House served as a focal point for the political and cultural activities of the colonial power, the feudal system, and a segment of the bourgeoisie. Crucially, it also became a site for significant historical moments and revolutionary milestones for both the nation and Hai Phong City. On the morning of August 23, 1945, the Municipal Theater Square witnessed tens of thousands of people, supported by self-defense forces, converging from various directions, carrying red flags with yellow stars. Precisely at 10 o'clock, a solemn rally commenced in the square. Comrade Nguyen Quoc Uy, representing the Uprising Committee, declared the dissolution of the Japanese fascist government and announced the formation of the provisional revolutionary People's Committee of Hai Phong.
Following the August Revolution, the Opera House became the central location for organizing activities of the revolutionary government, including initiatives like Golden Week, the Hunger Relief movement, and the South Advance movement. A notable event occurred on November 20, 1946, during the initial French assault on Hai Phong. Thirty-nine Viet Minh soldiers and Opera House staff, armed with antique muskets and led by platoon commander Dang Kim No, engaged French troops from within the Opera House for three days and nights. This engagement resulted in the deaths of 50 French soldiers before the Viet Minh forces were eventually overwhelmed. The city was evacuated by the Viet Minh on November 23 under heavy bombardment. The Municipal Theater Square also played host to the event on May 13, 1955, when thousands of residents from the city and its outskirts gathered to welcome the army taking control of the city. Since the liberation of Hai Phong, the Municipal Theater has consistently served as the primary venue for the city's political and cultural activities, especially during the annual celebration of city liberation on May 13 and during the Tet holiday.
Cultural and Artistic Contributions
From a cultural perspective, since its inauguration, the theater was a venue for political activities and cultural performances by the French colonial regime, the feudal class, and a specific social division. After Hai Phong's liberation on May 13, 1955, the Municipal Theater came under the management of the revolutionary government. The repertoire expanded to include local genres such as classical opera, traditional dramas (tuong, cheo), and the popular folk musical form (cai luong). Since then, the theater has played a vital role in the cultural, social, and tourism development of Hai Phong City.
The Opera House also hosts concerts featuring Vietnamese music, encompassing both classical and neotraditional Vietnamese-Western styles (ca tru, 'revised national music'), as well as folk genres like chau van and quan ho, alongside contemporary popular songs. Artistically, as a product of the French colonial period, its design, construction materials, and decorative patterns were entirely modeled on European cultural products. The Municipal Theater is a neoclassical architectural work, integrating the aesthetic appeal of ancient Greek-Roman architecture with the robust lines of Baroque style and the refined artistic decorations and romantic paintings characteristic of French design. The interior spaces of this building resemble a dynamic, multi-hued art museum. Recognizing the distinctive value of the Hai Phong Opera House, the Ministry of Culture officially classified the Municipal Theater as a national monument on December 9, 2015, designating it as one of six significant architectural works and famous landscapes.
Visiting Hai Phong Opera House and Nearby Attractions
Similar to the Hanoi Opera House and Saigon Opera House, the Hai Phong Opera House is generally accessible to the public primarily during scheduled events and performances. There are no fixed public opening hours or a standard entrance fee for general viewing. Ticket prices vary depending on the specific type of show or event, the time, and the seating category. Typically, visitors observe the exterior, take photographs, or simply relax and socialize in the surrounding square.
You can also explore several attractions located close to the Hai Phong Opera House. These include the Flower Stall and the Statue of General Le Chan, a notable female general who served under the Trung Sisters during their rebellion against Chinese rule in 43 CE. Many visitors enjoy strolling around Tam Bac Lake to experience the daily rhythm of Vietnam's third-largest city, observe the swans on the lake, and visit the Iron Market. A short distance away, you'll find the Central Post Office, another example of French architecture in Hai Phong, and the city's newest bridge, Hoang Van Thu Bridge, which spans the Cam River between the old town and Thuy Nguyen District. A drive across this bridge offers panoramic views of the entire city and a section of Hai Phong's old port. When considering your travel budget in the area, remember that managing financial services in Hai Phong City is straightforward with various options available.
Since the Opera House is centrally located, numerous restaurants, local eateries, and beverage establishments are readily available nearby. Some of Hai Phong City's culinary specialties that visitors often seek out include crab noodles with their distinctive flavor and aroma (banh da cua); spicy bread served with pate (banh mi cay); crab spring rolls (nem cua be); a rich and flavorful crab hotpot featuring freshwater crab paste and crab meat (lau cua); and the increasingly popular pickled coconut drink (dua dam).
Accommodation Options in Hai Phong City
Hai Phong City provides a wide selection of hotels and resorts, catering to various preferences in quality, standards, and price points. Here are some options for your consideration:
| Hotel Name | Address | Phone Number |
|---|---|---|
| Manoir Des Arts Hotel | 64 Dien Bien Phu Street, Hong Bang District, Hai Phong City | +84 225 8 831 522 |
| Mercure Hai Phong | 12 Lach Tray Street, Ngo Quyen District, Hai Phong City | +84 225 3 240 999 |
| Avani Hai Phong Habour View | 12 Tran Phu Street, Ngo Quyen District, Hai Phong City | +84 225 3 827 827 |
| Sea Stars Hotel | 1/3A Le Hong Phong Street, Ngo Quyen District, Hai Phong City | +84 906 004 089 |
| Lac Long Hotel | 83 Bach Dang Street, Hai Phong City | +84 225 3 820 777 |
Transportation to the Opera House
Given its central position within Hai Phong City, the Hai Phong Opera House is conveniently close to many of the city's iconic attractions. Reaching it on foot is straightforward for many visitors. For those staying further away, taxis or motorbikes represent suitable transportation choices. Hai Phong City is also well-connected to other significant destinations in Vietnam. It is approximately 120 kilometers from the capital city of Hanoi. Access to Cat Ba Island is possible via a combination of bus or taxi and a ferry or speedboat. Ha Long City is also relatively close, situated about 47 kilometers away. For intercity travel, considering overnight rail journeys in Vietnam can be an efficient way to connect between major urban centers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hai Phong Opera House?
The Hai Phong Opera House, also known as the Municipal Theater, is a historic French colonial architectural landmark in Hai Phong City, Vietnam. Completed in 1912, it is one of three such theaters built in the country and serves as a significant cultural and historical venue.
Can visitors enter the Hai Phong Opera House?
Generally, public access to the Hai Phong Opera House is limited to those attending specific events or performances. There are no regular public opening hours or an entrance fee for casual visits. However, visitors can appreciate its exterior and the surrounding square.
What historical events occurred at the Hai Phong Opera House?
The Opera House and its square were central to several key historical events, including a major rally on August 23, 1945, which declared the abolition of Japanese rule, and a three-day defense by Viet Minh soldiers against French forces in November 1946. It also witnessed the welcoming of the army into the city on May 13, 1955.
What architectural style defines the Hai Phong Opera House?
The Hai Phong Opera House showcases French colonial architecture with neoclassical influences. Its design incorporates Gothic interior elements, Grecian details, and features reminiscent of the Paris Opera House, blending ancient Greek-Roman aesthetics with Baroque and French Romantic artistic styles.
What local dishes should I try near the Opera House?
Being in the city center, numerous local food options are available. Recommended Hai Phong specialties include banh da cua (crab noodles), banh mi cay (spicy bread with pate), nem cua be (crab spring rolls), lau cua (crab hotpot), and dua dam (pickled coconut drink).
