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Yang Liping, known as the “Peacock Princess,” is a household name in Chinese dance. Photo: Archives

The famed dance drama The Peacock by renowned Chinese dancer Yang Liping is set to premiere in Hanoi in March 2026, but its steep ticket prices are sparking heated debate.

While Vietnamese audiences are eager to witness the iconic performance, which has captivated fans across Asia, the pricing has raised eyebrows. The show will run for four nights at the Ho Guom Theatre in Hanoi, with ticket tiers ranging from USD 200 (Silver) to USD 800 (Diamond).

In comparison, ticket prices for The Peacock in China typically range from 180 to 1,080 yuan (USD 67–160) depending on the city and venue, according to data from major ticketing platforms such as Damai, Maoyan, and Piaowutong. Even in major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou, top-tier tickets rarely exceed 1,280 yuan (USD 190). In smaller cities like Quanzhou and Foshan, prices are significantly lower, with top seats priced at around 880 yuan (USD 130).

This means that the Hanoi performance is charging 4 to 5 times more than the original shows in China  -  leading many to accuse the local organizer of price inflation.

When contacted by VietNamNet, VietArt Media JSC, the event’s organizer, acknowledged the concerns but defended the pricing, citing the substantial costs involved in staging the production.

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Yang Liping during a performance. Photo: Archives

They explained that the company is fully responsible for all expenses, including airfare, accommodation, meals, and logistics for a troupe of nearly 100 artists, dancers, and technicians. In addition, six containers of equipment, props, and specialized costumes are being transported overland from China to Vietnam.

The Peacock performance demands high technical standards  -  from custom stage flooring and specialized lighting to LED displays and an international production crew. Currently, the Ho Guom Theatre is the only venue in Vietnam capable of meeting such specifications.

However, with only 750 seats in the theatre, the organizers say prices must be adjusted to balance production costs with projected revenue.

Organizers also point out that in China, many venues are state-run and subsidized by the government, which helps reduce ticket prices. Additionally, traditional and culturally significant performances  -  including those by Yang Liping  -  often receive direct financial support from public funds to promote national heritage.

In contrast, the Vietnam tour is entirely privately funded.

Moreover, the Hanoi performance features only four shows, whereas The Peacock is performed multiple times a year in China, allowing for broader ticketing strategies.

“We understand that ticket prices are a sensitive issue, and we’ve made every effort to balance production costs with accessibility,” said a representative from VietArt. “We are committed to delivering an artistic experience worthy of the value and reputation of this masterpiece.”

Gia Bao