Paris by Night is a popular Vietnamese-language musical variety show that has been entertaining audiences for over three decades. However, it may come as a surprise to many that this show is banned in Vietnam.
The History of Paris by Night
Paris by Night was created in 1983 by Thuy Nga Productions, a company based in Paris, France. The show features live performances from Vietnamese singers, dancers, and comedians and is known for its glitzy costumes and elaborate sets.
Over the years, Paris by Night has become incredibly popular among Vietnamese people living all over the world. The show has been broadcast in more than 30 countries and has sold millions of DVDs and CDs.
Why is the Show Banned in Vietnam?
Despite its worldwide popularity, Paris by Night is banned in Vietnam. The Vietnamese government claims that the show promotes a Westernized lifestyle that goes against traditional Vietnamese values.
The government also accuses Thuy Nga Productions of being an anti-communist organization that supports the former South Vietnamese government. This accusation stems from the fact that Thuy Nga Productions is based in France, which was a supporter of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War.
In addition to these political reasons, there have also been reports of corruption within Thuy Nga Productions. Some sources claim that the company has ties to organized crime and uses illegal means to produce their shows.
The Impact of the Ban
The ban on Paris by Night has had a significant impact on Vietnamese people living in Vietnam. Many fans of the show are unable to watch it legally and must resort to buying pirated copies or watching it online through unofficial channels.
For Thuy Nga Productions, the ban has made it difficult to produce new content. Without access to their home country’s market, they are missing out on potential revenue and are limited in terms of where they can tour.
However, despite these challenges, Paris by Night continues to thrive outside of Vietnam. The show remains popular among Vietnamese communities around the world and serves as a reminder of the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Conclusion
The ban on Paris by Night in Vietnam has been a controversial issue for many years. While the government claims that the show goes against traditional Vietnamese values, others argue that it is a form of censorship and a violation of free speech.
Regardless of one’s opinion on the matter, it is clear that Paris by Night has had a significant impact on Vietnamese culture and continues to be an important part of many people’s lives.