A captivating semi-realistic art show, highlighting the rich Champa culture, unfolded at the Ponagar Tower in Nha Trang, offering an engaging experience for visitors.
On the evening of December 27, 2023, the Department of Culture and Sports of Khanh Hoa province collaborated with the Khanh Hoa Monuments Conservation Center to present the art program, titled “The Moon Reflects the Shape of the Tower,” at the picturesque Ponagar Tower site in Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa. This unique event took the form of a semi-realistic theater production.
Daily Semi-Realistic Art Show “The Moon Reflects the Shape of the Tower”
The initiative seeks to disseminate and celebrate cultural heritage values within the community, enhancing the spiritual lives of visitors and fostering a festive atmosphere as the 2024 New Year approaches. The program is designed not only to entertain but also to contribute to the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage.
Visitors are immersed in a live, staged presentation that provides a brief introduction to Champa culture, the ancient history of Khanh Hoa, and the architectural marvels of the Ponagar Tower complex. The program unfolds as a continuous storyline, allowing visitors to easily grasp the distinctive features of Cham culture.
Beyond informative presentations, attendees can indulge in cultural and artistic performances, including the mesmerizing “Legend of Ponagar” dance, a traditional Cham musical ensemble, and captivating traditional Cham folk dances such as the lu dance and fan dance.
Mr. Nguyen Tuan Dung, the deputy director of the Khanh Hoa Monuments Conservation Center, emphasized that the program aims to serve as a wholesome platform for both locals and tourists to gain practical insights into traditional culture and folk arts. Additionally, participants are encouraged to actively engage in promoting and preserving cultural heritage values through hands-on activities.
Looking ahead, Mr. Dung revealed plans to develop a comprehensive organizational schedule, envisioning a monthly program with diverse themes throughout the year. This forward-thinking approach aligns with the broader objectives of Khanh Hoa province’s nighttime economic development project and its commitment to preserving and promoting cultural heritage values.
It’s worth noting that visits to Ponagar Tower Nha Trang are limited to 6:00 p.m. daily. The semi-realistic art show represents an experimental leap in organizing cultural and artistic activities, seamlessly tying into the nighttime economic development initiative and the ongoing efforts to safeguard and showcase cultural heritage values.
Introduction to Ponaga Tower in Nha Trang
Ponagar Tower, an ancient architectural marvel nestled in the coastal city of Nha Trang, Vietnam, stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of history, religion, and cultural heritage.
This sacred site, also known as Thap Ba Po Nagar, dates back to the Cham civilization, with its origins tracing to the 8th century. Dedicated to the Cham goddess Po Nagar, this complex of temples reflects the spiritual and religious significance of the region. The towers, constructed with meticulous craftsmanship, showcase a blend of Cham, Indian, and Southeast Asian architectural influences.
The religious sanctity of Ponagar Tower in Nha Trang is enhanced by its role as a place of worship and pilgrimage, drawing devotees seeking blessings and spiritual solace.
Annually, the site comes alive with the vibrant Ponagar Tower Festival (from the 20th to 23rd day of lunar March), a celebration that immerses visitors in the cultural heritage of the Cham people. The festival, featuring traditional music, dance, and rituals, offers a captivating glimpse into the rituals and traditions that have endured for centuries, making Ponagar Tower an enchanting destination where the past gracefully converges with the present.
