Eleven artists who perform and teach the art of chau van (ritual) singing and dancing have been awarded "Folk Artisan" title by the Viet Nam Folk Arts and Literature Association. — Photo baothanhhoa.vn

HA NOI  (VNS) — As many as 11 artists who perform and teach the art of chau van (ritual) singing and dancing have been awarded "Folk Artisan" title by the Viet Nam Folk Arts and Literature Association.

The award marks the first official praise of chau van artists. Chau van is a spiritual performance art accompanying the hau dong (mediumship) ritual of the Mother Goddess' religion.

The awards ceremony was in the framework of the second Chau Van Performance Programme of the Northern Delta Region held here by the Ministry of Culture, Viet Nam Theatre Artists' Association and the Viet Nam Folk Arts and Literature Association.

The Ministry of Culture has asked the Viet Nam Institute of Culture and Arts Studies to compile a dossier on Chau Van songs and dances, to seek UNESCO recognition of the art as invaluable cultural heritage. — VNS