Hanoi plans $76mn theater as part of cultural investment push

The project, to be located on Vo Thi Sau Street in Bach Mai Ward, will cover about 9,000 square meters, according to an action plan issued by the Hanoi Party Committee to implement a national strategy on cultural development.

Under the plan, the city aims to invest in or support 1,058 cultural projects between 2026 and 2030, with total funding of about VND36.1 trillion ($1.4 billion).

Of that, 250 projects will be funded by the city budget with VND20.9 trillion ($793.5 million), while 808 projects will use commune- and ward-level budgets totaling VND15.2 trillion ($577 million).

The program also includes expanding and restoring the historical space of the Temple of Literature, building a 20,000-seat cultural center along the Red River axis, and studying a landmark project worth about VND1 trillion ($38 million) in Bo De Ward.

Hanoi targets the establishment of 15-20 cultural industry and creative design centers and develop 10-15 high-quality artistic productions for long-term performance and international promotion.

The city currently manages six theaters, many of which were built about 20 years ago and no longer meet modern technical standards or capacity needs.

Authorities said demand for cultural and entertainment activities, particularly among younger audiences, is rising, with a focus on higher-quality artistic offerings.

Separately, construction began in October 2025 on an opera house project in Tay Ho Ward, developed by Sun Group at a cost of more than VND12.7 trillion ($482.2 million).

The project, located on the Quang An peninsula near Dam Tri Lake, will include an opera house and a cultural and arts park for major events and public use.

The opera house is designed by Renzo Piano to feature a 1,797-seat main auditorium and a flexible space accommodating about 1,430 standing and 216 seated guests.