Presented by the Consulate General of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam in Western Australia and the Northern Territory in partnership with the Australian Vietnamese Family Association Inc. and supported by Vingroup, the special performance introduced Territorians to the elegance, colour and ceremony of traditional Vietnamese court music. 

Held at the AANT Centre to a full house, the evening performance showcased Nhã nhac, a rare and refined musical tradition that once echoed through the imperial palaces of Viet Nam. 

The Consul General said “The presentation of Nhã nhac in Darwin highlights the growing cultural connection between Viet Nam and Australia. Cultural exchanges such as this play a vital role in strengthening people-to-people ties, which remain a cornerstone of the bilateral relationship. They help deepen mutual understanding, foster goodwill and create a stronger foundation for cooperation across many areas, including education, tourism, trade and innovation”. 

Originating during the reign of the Nguyen Dynasty (1802–1945), Nhã nhac, often referred to as Hue Court Music, was historically performed during royal ceremonies, state rituals and important court events. It was regarded as the official music of the Vietnamese empire and formed an essential part of the nation’s ceremonial life for centuries. 

With its intricate rhythms, elegant choreography and traditional instruments, the performance transported the Darwin audience into the sophisticated cultural world of imperial Viet Nam. Musicians and performers, travelling from  Viet Nam for the event, presented a repertoire that blended music, movement and symbolism, reflecting the philosophical and spiritual traditions of the royal court. 

The art form holds global cultural significance. In 2003, UNESCO recognised Nhã nhac as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity, and in 2008 it was formally inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Since then, Viet Nam has implemented extensive national programs to preserve and promote the tradition. 

A key role in this effort has been played by the Hue Monuments Conservation Centre in the historic city of Hue, where performances are regularly staged at the historic Duyet Thi Đuong Royal Theatre within the Imperial City. Through cultural exchanges and international performances across Europe and Asia, Nhã nhac has reached new audiences while maintaining its traditional roots. 

The Darwin performance formed the opening event of the city’s Lunar New Year Series 2026 celebrations, highlighting the strong cultural ties between Australia and Viet Nam and the vibrant Vietnamese community living in the Northern Territory. 

Festivities continued with a major community celebration hosted by the Australian Vietnamese Family Association Inc, bringing together food, music, dance and cultural displays to mark the Lunar New Year. 

Willem Westra van Holthe, Director of Northern Territory Operations for Vingroup, said, events like these play an important role in strengthening cultural understanding and friendship between the two nations. 

For Darwin audiences, the evening offered more than entertainment, it was a rare glimpse into one of Asia’s most elegant musical traditions and a reminder of the enduring power of culture to connect communities across the world. TQ