A large-scale staging of The Hero of the Reed Flags blends lighting, music and circus performance to recreate historical scenes in Ninh Bình. — Photo courtesy of Ninh Bình Radio and Television Station (NBTV)

NINH BÌNH — History comes alive on water in Ninh Bình as a large-scale real-life performance transforms the story of national hero Đinh Bộ Lĩnh into an immersive stage experience.

Staged by the Việt Nam Circus Federation at Hoa Lư Ancient Town, Anh Hùng Cờ Lau (The Hero of the Reed Flags) combines live performance, visual effects and carefully choreographed scenes to recreate the legendary tale.

Rather than presenting history in a conventional format, the production turns historical material into an emotional and accessible experience for audiences.

Giang Khánh Linh, a communications officer at Hoa Lư Ancient Town, said the show was designed as a cultural tourism product to connect with audiences on a deeper level.

“Through this performance, we aim to create a cultural tourism product that can tell stories, evoke emotions and help visitors better understand the history of Ninh Bình — once the capital of Đại Cồ Việt, Việt Nam's first feudal state,” she said.

History told through experience

One of the programme’s defining features is its approach to historical storytelling. By placing performances on water and integrating martial arts, lighting and sound design, the show presents historical events in a dynamic and visually engaging way.

Instead of simply recounting historical facts, the performance allows audiences to experience history through movement and imagery.

An aerial horseback act - a highlight of the show. — Photo baotintuc.vn

Phạm Thanh Hương, a visitor from Phú Thọ, said the show offered a meaningful way to introduce history to younger generations.

“In previous visits, we mostly came to Hoa Lư to take photos and then leave. This time, I brought my children to experience the Anh Hùng Cờ Lau show so they can feel more proud of our history,” she said. “The carefully staged martial arts scenes help bring the story of Emperor Đinh Tiên Hoàng to life in a natural, memorable and emotionally engaging way.”

Night tourism finds its footing

Beyond its artistic value, the show also highlights a broader shift in Ninh Bình’s tourism strategy, particularly in developing night-time experiences.

According to experts, the province holds unique advantages for night tourism linked to heritage preservation. Unlike major cities where night-time economies often revolve around shopping or modern entertainment, Ninh Bình’s strength lies in its combination of cultural heritage and natural landscapes.

A performance scene from The Hero of the Reed Flags. — Photo baotintuc.vn

This interplay between history, culture and scenery enables the development of experience-driven night tourism products such as live performances, cultural shows, music, cuisine and heritage tours.

Such offerings are not merely entertainment but storytelling experiences that engage visitors emotionally, encouraging them to stay longer and spend more.

Đỗ Thùy Linh, a tourist from Hà Nội, said each visit to Ninh Bình continues to offer something new.

“Every time I return, I feel like I’ve already explored everything, but Ninh Bình always surprises me,” she said.

“It used to be the quiet beauty of Tràng An or Tam Cốc, but now there is also the vibrant atmosphere of Hoa Lư at night."

She added that the show had changed her perspective on visiting the province.

“After watching The Hero of the Reed Flags, I feel more connected to the history of this land. Visitors now come not only to see the scenery, but to truly experience its cultural space.”

A model for cultural tourism

Local authorities view the programme as part of a broader effort to position culture as a central pillar of tourism development. By combining heritage storytelling with creative staging, The Hero of the Reed Flags demonstrates how historical content can be transformed into engaging tourism products.

As Ninh Bình continues to expand its tourism offerings, initiatives like this are expected to play a key role in shaping a more diverse experience-driven destination, one where history is no longer confined to textbooks but brought vividly to life on stage. — VNS