Lang Toi: The world’s first bamboo circus performance

Bamboo, known for its versatility, is integral to daily life in Vietnam, used in everything from construction to home décor.

A one-of-a-kind performance from Hanoi elevates this fast-growing plant to an entirely new level.

Known as the world’s first bamboo circus, Lang Toi – or My Village – offers one of Vietnam’s most captivating performing arts experiences. Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, it holds the record as the country’s longest-running show.

"With Lang Toi and our concept, we aim to highlight the value of our traditions," says Tuan Le, director of Lang Toi.

At 42, Tuan Le, who has worked with Cirque du Soleil and was a professional juggler in his youth in Europe, brings Lang Toi to life as his first theater project based in Vietnam.

This one-hour performance narrates the cultural tale of Vietnam’s traditional villages through movement, music, and of course, bamboo.

Bamboo, a symbol of resilience and longevity, features prominently in the show—from the raft where performers dance to the instruments they play.

"It’s something truly unique about the people and our concept," says Le.

"What sets us apart is how we use bamboo—not just as decoration, but as a tool to create new circus techniques. After more than 10 years, we can proudly say we've defined a new identity for Vietnamese circus—through the use of bamboo."

Forget high-tech stage designs and special effects. Everything in Lang Toi is handcrafted.

Rather than relying on spoken words, the performers convey their message through live folk music and expressive movement, breaking down language barriers.

"I incorporate acrobatics and their techniques to tell a story that transcends language," says Le.

A truly global art form

The universal appeal of the show has played a key role in its success.

Lang Toi has been staged over 1,000 times, including more than 300 performances outside Vietnam, in Europe and various other Asian countries.

"Modern performances like this are gaining increasing popularity," says Dinh Thi Loan, a Lang Toi performer. "It attracts many young people eager to get involved."

Originally, the Lang Toi team had just 20 musicians and performers, but it has grown into a large-scale production with over 200 staff members.

Lune Production, the show's producer, now runs four distinct performance styles at three locations in Vietnam – Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hoi An – several nights a week, showcasing the richness of Vietnamese culture.

"We plan to continue developing more projects within the country, and who knows, perhaps expand into Southeast Asia. That’s the vision we have for the future," says Le.

In Hanoi, Lang Toi is performed at the historic 108-year-old Hanoi Opera House (01 Trang Tien St., Hoan Kiem Dist.) and the Hanoi Vietnam Tuong Theater (51A Duong Thanh St., Hoan Kiem Dist.).

Tickets are available for purchase through Lune Production's official website.