Elizabeth Stanton's Great Big World Season 1 Episode 2 Vietnam is Listening

Elizabeth Stanton's Great Big World season 1 episode 2, titled "Vietnam is Listening," explores the vibrant culture, rich history, and unique traditions of Vietnam. Host Elizabeth Stanton immerses herself in the country's dynamic lifestyle, participating in various activities that allow her to experience Vietnam's authenticity.

The episode begins with Elizabeth's arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. She first visits the Reunification Palace, a historic landmark that serves as a reminder of Vietnam's tumultuous past and its path to unity. She then heads to a local Vietnamese market, where she samples some of the country's traditional street food and is fascinated by the market's bustling energy.

Elizabeth's next stop is to meet a group of Vietnamese hip-hop dancers who share their passion for dance and their desire to break down cultural barriers. They teach Elizabeth some of their moves and share their perspective on Vietnam's developing contemporary arts scene. Elizabeth finds it inspiring and sees how Vietnam is embracing modernity while still preserving its traditions.

The episode also highlights Vietnam's scenic countryside as Elizabeth tours the lush, green Mekong Delta. She visits a floating market where locals sell their products directly from their boats and learns about the traditional rice-paper-making process. The visit to the Delta reveals a completely different side of Vietnam, highlighting the country's agricultural roots.

Elizabeth's exploration of Vietnam's cultural diversity continues with a visit to the A O Show, a contemporary Vietnamese circus that showcases the artistry of acrobats, dancers, and musicians. The show combines traditional Vietnamese elements with modern theatrics and presents the country's cultural richness in a truly breathtaking way.

Vietnam's past is not lost on Elizabeth during this episode, as she visits the Vietnam War Remnants Museum and sees compelling exhibitions about the war's effects on the Vietnamese people. The museum's exhibits also highlight the ongoing repercussions of the war, such as landmine accidents and the effects of Agent Orange.

The episode concludes with Elizabeth joining a group of Vietnamese students for an evening of karaoke, which is hugely popular in Vietnam. They sing classic American and Vietnamese pop songs and bond over their shared passion for music. Elizabeth reflects on her time in Vietnam and how it has allowed her to experience the country truly while highlighting the country's cultural diversity and complex history.

Overall, Elizabeth Stanton's Great Big World season 1 episode 2 "Vietnam is Listening" offers a vibrant, insightful, and inspiring look into one of Southeast Asia's most diverse and fascinating countries. The episode presents Vietnam's cultural richness and highlights the country's blend of traditional and modern elements while also diving into its complex history and present-day struggles.