Trám Temple Lễ hội Trò Trám

Xã Tứ Xã, Lâm Thao, Phú Thọ

Cultural Heritage (1 review, 5 stars)

Lễ hội Trò Trám has been recognized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism as a national intangible cultural heritage under Decision No. 4036/QD-BVHTTDL dated November 21, 2016. This festival is a vibrant celebration deeply rooted in the ancient traditions of the Vietnamese people, aiming to bring forth a prosperous harvest and the abundance of all living things.

Miếu Trám, also known as the Miếu Trò, is the focal point of the festivities and is dedicated to the local goddess Ngô Thị Thanh. Lễ hội Trò Trám is particularly renowned in the ancient Lâm Thao region, both within and beyond the present-day Phú Thọ province.

The festival features a ceremonial segment and a lively carnival. The carnival showcases a unique and captivating performance known as “Tứ dân chi nghiệp” or the Trám play, presented by the residents of Trám village. Hence, from ancient times, it has been affectionately referred to as the “Lễ hội Trò Trám.” The “Tứ dân chi nghiệp” performance, or Trám play, is a form of representation simulating various local professions in feudal society, encompassing four basic occupations: Scholar, Farmer, Craftsman, and Merchant. It is also referred to as the “Bách nghệ khôi hài” play due to its humorous and unique qualities, expressed through comical lyrics and entertaining performances.

In the “Tứ dân chi nghiệp,” the narrative is rich and realistic throughout each act, presented in a simple and amusing manner with all characters exhibiting lively and humorous movements. The play involves individual introductions, monologues, or dialogues among characters, often accompanied by teasing songs. Each character simultaneously performs their respective professional tasks with a humorous touch, using witty and playful songs to entertain the audience, particularly focusing on playful interactions with village girls. The joy seems never-ending during this festival. After the conclusion of the “Tứ dân chi nghiệp” performance, the community members, along with local and distant visitors, come together to share blessings on a banquet set with banana leaves right on the grounds of Miếu Trám.