 |
| The Mid-Autumn Festival is one of children’s favorite celebrations. Photo: Ngoc Hoa |
Their practice ground is nothing fancy, just a small open space around the alley. After school, the kids gather, assigning roles: one holds the unicorn head, one beats the drum, another clangs the cymbals. Their movements are clumsy, the drum often offbeat, but the laughter never stops. “Doing the unicorn dance is so much fun. We get to play and share candy together,” one boy said, his eyes sparkling with excitement.
Talking about their children joining the dance, many parents expressed support. Because more than just a festive game, unicorn dancing helps children build strength, teamwork, and confidence in front of a crowd. Ms. Tran Thi Mai (Thuan Hoa Ward) shared: “At first, I worried that practicing unicorn dancing would tire my child out and affect his studies. But then I realized each practice session is a lesson in discipline and sharing.” Some parents even stay to watch, occasionally helping fix a drum or tie a loose strap on the unicorn’s head. These spontaneous neighborhood troupes bring a special charm: simple, heartfelt, and reminiscent of childhood memories shared across generations.
By 6 p.m., the kids are already gathering, ready to begin their evening rounds. Following them for a while, I realized the work isn’t easy. The unicorn head is heavy, the drum cumbersome, and their feet must constantly move in rhythm. Yet, none of them complain. Each time the drum resounds, their energy rises and their movements grow livelier. Nguyen Tien Nhan, leader of the An Cuu Ward troupe, said: “Our group has ten members. We go door to door in the neighborhood. Everyone welcomes us, sometimes giving money or treats. The best part is seeing everyone smile and clap.”
Not only parents, but many local residents are also delighted to see the young lion dancers performing around the streets. Mr. Nguyen Van Nam (70 years old, Thuan Hoa Ward) said: “Whenever I see the kids’ unicorn troupe, I invite them right in. Watching them dance brings back memories of when I used to do the same. I’m so glad this tradition still continues.”
These days, such neighborhood unicorn dance troupes are rare. Busy lifestyles and academic pressures mean children have less time to play, while phone screens and online games often take their attention. That’s why these humble, homegrown troupes are precious. They help keep the flame of tradition alive.
The drumbeats and clumsy steps may not be perfect, but they awaken nostalgic childhood memories for adults and spark joy in every neighborhood. Mid-Autumn in Hue wouldn’t feel complete without these little lion dancers. And surely, as they grow up, the children will always remember the feeling of running through the streets, drumming and laughing, leaving behind bright, innocent full-moon nights.
An endearing detail about many of these troupes is that, after each Mid-Autumn season, the kids carefully wrap the lion heads for safekeeping so that the joy continues from one moon season to the next.