Vietnam hosts Then cultural heritage exhibition in Laos

The Museum of Ethnology of Vietnam, in coordination with the Vietnam Cultural Center in Laos, inaugurated a specialized exhibition and performance program in Vientiane from August 17 to 19. The event focuses on the ‘Then practice of Tay-Thai linguistic groups,’ a form of folk art that integrates music, singing, dance, and traditional crafts.

This cultural initiative commemorates the 81st anniversary of the August Revolution and Vietnam's National Day, while also marking the upcoming 10th anniversary of the Vientiane Declaration on strengthening ASEAN cultural heritage cooperation. The exhibition aims to promote the values of this intangible heritage and strengthen the strategic ties and friendship between Vietnam and Laos.

Recognized by UNESCO in 2019 as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity, the Then practice utilizes the traditional Tính lute to express prayers for favorable weather, good harvests, and peaceful lives. The practice serves as a spiritual link between humanity and nature, as well as between the past and the present.