Ionah Show
87 Lang Ha , Ba Dinh, Hanoi, Northern Vietnam, 100000
The Ionah Show—which, you might notice, is “Hanoi” backward—is Vietnam’s take on Cirque du Soleil, combining the spectacle of circus with hip hop, theatre, pyrotechnics, modern dance, light, vivid costumes, 3D sets, and more. Audiences familiar with Hanoi will notice quite a few city references, some hidden, some not, as the technicolor show also tells the wild story of Vietnam’s capital.
The basics
Running three nights a week, the Ionah Show tells a Romeo-and-Juliet-esque story, mashing classic and modern genres together as two star-crossed lovers navigate the world through dance, color, and drama.
Walking into the theatre, you’ll be greeted by a live pianist in the sparkling-white lobby—this experience is all class. From there, file into your seat, sit back, and wait for the lights to drop and the magic to take over. Look for hints of Hanoi as the sets twist, morph, and swivel.
Things to know before you go
Shows typically take place on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
Runtime is roughly 75–90 minutes, starting at 7:45pm.
No need to understand Vietnamese to appreciate this show—it transcends language.
How to get there
The Star Galaxy Theater can be found at 87 Lang Ha Street in the Ba Dinh District of Hanoi. Take a taxi or xe om (manned motorbike) there, aiming to arrive at least 15 minutes before the show. You can also walk there from the city’s impressive green spaces, Indira Gandhi Park and Dong Da Lake.
When to get there
Shows start at 7:45pm on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Aim to get there by 7:30 if you have tickets in hand; if you don’t, aim for a bit earlier. You may want extra time to take in the picturesque lobby, visit the restrooms, snap photos, and find your seats.
A long-standing tradition
Though the Ionah Show is incredibly modern, theatre is one of Vietnam’s oldest art forms, and this show certainly includes nods to classic Vietnamese theatre traditions. If you’d like a more in-depth look at the country’s theatrical past, consider witnessing a water-puppet show—the form dates back to the 11th century and is still going strong today.
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