APEC Theater in Phu Quoc: A stage for Vietnam’s story on the global stage

With a total floor area of 67,720 sq.m, comprising six above-ground floors and one basement, and seating for more than 4,030, the APEC Multi-functional Complex not only surpasses most venues in Asia, which typically seat 1,500 to 2,500, but is also larger than the Dolby Theatre in the United States, home of the Oscars, with around 3,400 seats.

The project is designed by leading global firms including Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) and Apeiro Design, a U.S.-based consultancy specializing in theater design with more than 50 years of experience.

The theater’s form embodies a profound Eastern philosophy: a circular structure symbolizing the Sky stands alongside the square APEC Convention and Exhibition Center representing the Earth, reflecting the traditional concept of “round heaven, square earth”.

Its exterior is clad in a shell inspired by dragon-scale motifs, imagery associated with the legend of the Dragon and Fairy Descendants, symbolizing the sacred origins of the Vietnamese people and the authority of Eastern culture. The roof is supported by 50 columns, an allusion to the 50 children who followed Lac Long Quan to the sea, while also recalling bamboo hedges, a familiar image deeply rooted in Vietnam’s cultural memory.

Upon entering, each space unfolds like a chapter, with every experience adding a new layer of emotion. The ground floor opens into the heart of a pearl, a symbol of Phu Quoc, where soft, flowing arches envelop the space and gentle lighting evokes the elegant luster of its surface.

In the public lounge areas, details inspired by rural villages and fishing communities such as thatched roofing, woven materials, and wood surfaces, are thoughtfully incorporated. The space feels warm and familiar, offering a sense of calm and relaxation, like a quiet pause, where visitors can encounter familiar elements of Vietnamese culture within a contemporary setting.

The second floor is shaped by lush greenery extending from the exterior. This level features a light, airy palette, with abundant natural light and open spaces, creating a gentle transition, a moment of calm before audiences enter the main theater.

The auditorium, considered the “heart” of the Lac Long Quan complex, opens into a striking, emotionally rich space. Dominated by red and gold tones, it makes a strong visual impression while conveying a sense of formality suited to a major performance venue.

The layered ceiling evokes traditional tiled roofs, while the walls feature patterns inspired by dragon scales. Expressed in a contemporary design language, these elements create a space that carries cultural significance while remaining well suited to modern performances.

With a 30-meter-wide stage and a seating capacity of 4,030, the theater is designed to accommodate large-scale performances and events. The venue will feature modern interiors and advanced sound and lighting systems, meeting international standards for hosting major shows, concerts and global events such as film festivals. It is set to welcome leading artists from around the world, helping to elevate Vietnam’s presence on the international stage.

In partnership with Sun Group, Cirque du Soleil, the world-renowned performance arts company from Canada, will stage regular shows here, bringing world-class productions to Phu Quoc. Known for its signature blend of acrobatics, theatrical storytelling, music, and visual artistry, Cirque du Soleil has captivated audiences in more than 60 countries and become a global icon of contemporary performance.

The VVIP Lounge is conceived as an emotional buffer between the stage and the individual experience, offering a setting that is both luxurious, discreet and refined. A dominant burgundy palette, combined with warm golden lighting, creates a rich, intimate atmosphere.

The bar serves as a visual focal point, with backlit shelving displaying spirits and creating a striking, stage-like effect. Seating is arranged in small clusters to ensure privacy while maintaining a sense of connection throughout the space. Materials are carefully selected, including deep red velvet, champagne-toned metal and subtly veined stone, achieving a harmonious balance between sophistication and emotion. The lounge not only provides a place to unwind but also extends the experience before and after performances.

With rapid progress, the multi-purpose performance hall has already completed approximately 80% of its reinforced concrete structure. The installation of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems (MEP) has also begun, marking a key step toward bringing the project closer to completion.

According to the schedule, the entire exterior of the project is expected to be finished by October 2026, before moving into the interior finishing phase, with overall completion targeted for early 2027 in time for APEC. The venue is also being invested in by Sun Group to operate nightly, helping to position Phu Quoc as a destination for world-class arts and major events.