In Vietnam, street artists told to quit impromptu gigs for planned events
TUOI TRE NEWS
UPDATED : 12/08/2016 16:17 GMT + 7
While spontaneity is the spirit of street art, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City authorities are demanding that they be briefed in advance on any performances that take place on local walking streets.
The decision, which the regulatory bodies say is to ensure security and order at the pedestrian venues, has caused uproar among local street artists and stripped the walking streets of a core attraction.
The Nguyen Hue walking street in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City and its counterpart in Hanoi near the iconic Ho Guom (Sword Lake) are hot spots for locals and tourists to spend evenings, particularly to take in the groups of street artists and performers who flock to each arena to showcase their skills.
Most of the gigs are unplanned, with spectators gathering around the performances with excitement.
However, the Hanoi culture department has recently enacted decree No.79, stipulating that it be notified of the content and time of street artists planning to perform in the capital at least five days in advance.
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