HÀ NỘI The Vietnam Cultural Show London 2024 has taken place in capital to mark the 70th anniversary of the Điện Biên Phủ Victory (May 7, 1954-2024) and to celebrate the 134th birth anniversary of President Hồ Chí Minh (May 19, 1890-2024).

It was held at the Greenwood Theatre in King’s College London, on May 19 with the theme This is Vietnam.

More than 100 Vietnamese and local artists and models, both professional and amateur, performed at the event as a way of introducing the country, its culture and people to international friends. 

Hoàng Hải Hà, a representative of the organising board, said the annual event was a joint effort of the Vietnamese international women federation in the UK, Park Pharmacy and the brand Love Collection Áo Dài (Vietnamese traditional long dress), to highlight the country's culture and colourful image.

She said the success of the programme showed how much people loved and were interested in the nation, its traditions and its character, as well as how the status of the Vietnamese community in the UK was becoming more prestigious.

All proceeds from the event went to the Vietnamese Women and Children Association to develop projects that preserve and promote traditional cultural and artistic values among the Vietnamese community in the UK.

One of the highlights of the show was the runway show for Love Collection’s áo dài designs for both adults and children. The fashion brand celebrates its fifth anniversary this year and one of its founders, Anna Hoàng, together with her team, received a 2023 National External Information Service Award.

The exhibition area featured signature products from Việt Nam including áo dài, conical hats from Chuông village, hand-painted lacquerware trays, bamboo cups and rattan bags, as well as Vietnamese cuisine. 

Organisers also handed sashes of honour to Đào Kim Thư and Vũ Thu Huyền, who will represent the UK at the Miss Áo Dài European pageant finals to be held in Poland in June. VNS