“In Search of the Dragon Pearl” - An Immersive Cultural Performance
As Vietnam’s tourism sector continues to innovate to attract visitors, a live show “in search of the Dragon Pearl” has emerged as a captivating new attraction. Blending natural scenery with immersive storytelling, the show offers visitors a unique culture experience.
The cave - part of the Vung Duc heritage complex in Quang Ninh, shaped by underground water over millions of years, is nearly 2,000m long and features stunning stalactites and stalagmites. According to legend, a team of celestial dragons, led by the Mother Dragon, defended Vietnam from invaders, releasing jewels that became the islands of Ha Long and Bai Tu Long bays. After peace was restored, the Mother Dragon left a pearl in the cave, a symbol of lasting happiness and harmony.
Now, that ancient tale is being reimagined through a modern lens. “In Search of the Dragon Pearl” takes audiences on a 45-minute journey through light, sound, music, and movement, all within the cave’s magical surroundings.
The show features a mix of traditional theater, contemporary dance, circus arts, and original music. Each scene unfolds against the cave’s natural formations, transforming the space into a living, breathing stage. The visuals are striking, the storytelling poetic, and the overall experience emotionally powerful.
Creating a show inside a cave came with serious challenges, especially when it came to sound. The rock walls naturally amplify echoes, making it difficult to control acoustics. Sound engineers had to use advanced technology and custom equipment to ensure a clear and immersive audio experience.
Instead of just touring the cave, visitors are immersed in an artistic story that feels both ancient and futuristic. Each scene is crafted to engage the senses and inspire reflection on Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage. Behind the show is a team of veteran Vietnamese artists and stage directors, who worked closely with lighting designers and technical crews to bring the vision to life. One of the most powerful moments is when the audience sees the “Dragon Pearl”, a glowing gem made from coal, one of Quang Ninh’s most valuable natural resources. This moment ties the legend to the land, adding deeper meaning for both local and international viewers.
The show has quickly become a hit with visitors from Vietnam and beyond. Tourists have praised its innovative use of natural scenery, calling it a oneof-a-kind experience that combines nature, art, and storytelling in a way few other attractions can.
For Quang Ninh, it is more than just a show, it is a new model for tourism that encourages visitors to stay longer and engage more deeply with the local culture. It also helps position the province as a destination for creative and sustainable tourism experiences.
With its powerful storytelling, high production value, and unforgettable setting, the show is shining a new light on Quang Ninh. It is a must-see performance that adds fresh energy to Vietnam’s cultural stage and offers a deeper look into the legends that shape this beautiful land.
By Cong Dat/VNP Translated by Nguyen Tuoi