“Xoe” dance has long been an indispensable part of the spiritual lives of the Thai ethnic minority in Vietnam’s northwestern region. Together with elder artisans, the younger generations are working together to keep the UNESCO-recognised intangible heritage alive.
Despite her young age, Lo Thi Huyen from Chao Ha village in Nghia Loi commune, Nghia Lo town, in Yen Bai province is excellent at “xoe” dance.
As a member of the commune’s art group, she has actively taken part in “xoe” performances at community-based tourism sites.
"We have practiced traditional “xoe” dance and delivered stellar performances at local tourism sites. This helps us preserve our folk dance, and introduces the heritage to domestic and foreign visitors," Huyen said.
Nghia Lo town is home to nearly 200 art groups, whose members are young and have a passion for “xoe” dance. In performing the unique dance at major events, they have contributed to promoting the beauty of Muong Lo Valley, which boasts a kaleidoscope of wonderful cultural traits.
Aritan Hoang Thi Van from Tong Co 3 Group, Tan An Ward, Nghia Lo Town, Yen Bai Province, said: "I love “xoe” dance since my early childhood. I want to teach it to younger generations so that “xoe” will not fall into oblivion."
Nghia Lo town will work to complete its plans to preserve six types of “xoe” dance. The art groups will also be developed to promote Thai ethnic minority culture, whi🐠le branching out local tourism in a sustainable fashion./.
