Hanoi is converting its rich folk traditions into modern creative products, opening fresh revenue streams for the city. This effort follows Politburo Resolution No. 80‑NQ/TW, which designates culture as a key resource and driver of national development.

The municipal Department of Culture and Sports works hand‑in‑hand with private creative spaces and technology startups to build a cultural‑industry ecosystem. Their cooperation creates an environment where young talent can develop.

Dr. Bui Nhu Lai, Meritorious Artist and Rector of the Hanoi Academy of Theatre and Cinema, says the biggest breakthrough will come from using technology and contemporary theatrical thinking to celebrate traditional arts, rather than letting technology erase their original character. He believes that a contemporary form that resonates with the times lets heritage speak for itself.

Associate Professor Dr. Bui Xuan Dinh of the Hanoi Folk Arts Association explains that heritage includes tangible assets such as architecture and artworks, as well as intangible traditions like water puppetry, ca tru ceremonial singing, cheo opera and tuong theatre. These elements supply the stories, materials and inspiration needed to create compact, accessible cultural products for modern audiences.

The article notes that an old cultural centre, a former cooperative office or an unused warehouse could be converted into a community creative hub. They can host workshops, water‑puppet training, traditional woodworking and artisan exchanges, helping heritage reach new audiences.

People’s Artist Trung Hieu, Director of the Hanoi Drama Theater, stresses that funding alone cannot guarantee artistic quality; sustained investment in training creative teams is essential for high‑quality work and industry growth. He argues that long‑term support for directors, screenwriters, sound engineers and other professionals will keep Hanoi’s cultural industry vibrant.