From August 22 to 25, Hoi An collaborated with Arabesque Vietnam to present "Rom" (Straw) in the sprawling rice fields called "The Heart of the Rice Fields in Hoi An," nestled in the Truong Le block of Cam Chau ward.

This extraordinary event allowed audiences to witness contemporary dance set against the backdrop of a vast field, with the setting sun casting a warm, golden glow over the landscape.

"Rom" celebrates the simple yet profound beauty of Hoi An’s countryside during harvest, blending traditional folk music with world-class contemporary dance. The performance, choreographed by Nguyen Tan Loc with musical direction by Duc Tri, masterfully intertwines these elements to create a captivating cultural experience.

Loc, with his deep love for Hoi An and extensive international choreography experience, has created a cultural and tourism product that is uniquely reflective of Hoi An’s essence.

"Rom" also underscores the Hoi An City People’s Committee’s commitment to transforming the city into an eco-cultural-tourism hub. This initiative aims to creatively leverage and promote Hoi An’s cultural and artistic strengths, reinforcing its status as a UNESCO Creative City.

Below are some highlights from the debut performance of "Rom":

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Set against the backdrop of ripe rice fields during harvest season, "Rom" marks the first time Arabesque has introduced the concept of ambiance dance - merging contemporary dance with the natural environment - in Hoi An.

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Amidst the vast expanse of August rice fields, the performance honors the serene and harmonious beauty of the countryside during harvest.
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Utilizing straw as a primary material, combined with contemporary dance, drums, traditional musical instruments, and live performances by musicians, "Rom" unfolds over 60 minutes, timed perfectly with the setting sun.

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"Rom" tells a heartfelt story of love and familial bonds within a Vietnamese farming family.
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The familiar, rustic straw mounds serve as silent witnesses to the family’s journey—from the grandparents meeting and marrying, to their children playing under the straw mounds, and eventually growing up.
As generations passed, the grandparents sat by the straw mounds, planning marriages for the next generation. The straw mound, whether full or not, symbolizes the ebb and flow of family emotions and life’s stages.
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Against the rhythmic backdrop of planting and harvesting, "Rom" emerges as a simple yet powerful symbol of the resilience, creativity, and sustainability of Hoi An’s rural life.
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Ambiance dance, an art form that integrates dance with outdoor spaces, sound, and scenery, is well-established worldwide, particularly in cultural and tourist destinations.

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"Rom" enchants visitors with the picturesque countryside, golden rice fields, and the full sensory experience of the harvest season.
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Photo: DAINGO

Ha Nam