HUE — Artists and researchers took a close look at the current state of classical drama (tuong) at a workshop held at the former citadel theatre on Thursday.

Many participants expressed their concerns over small audiences, and blamed the under-development of the art for its backward content and performance style.

Artist Tran Ngoc Tuan, director of Da Nang's Nguyen Hien Dinh Tuong Theatre, said the creative thinking of tuong artists today had not developed and did not appeal to audiences.

According to artist Phan Thi Bach Hac from Hue Royal Tuong Theatre, the theatre mainly served tourists and festivals, rather than attracting local residents.

Prof Hoang Chuong believed the art would never die if there were interesting plays performed by talented artists. Audiences should also be taught how to understand the art thoroughly, he said.

"We should try to stage better plays and advertise the art more," he said. — VNS