Entertainers from HCM City's leading drama troupe, the IDECAF Stage, are preparing for musical dramas this Christmas with two works, Hoang Tu Gau va Hat Dau Than (Bear Prince and Magic Beans).— Photo phunuonline

HCM CITY (VNS)— Entertainers from HCM City's leading drama troupe, the IDECAF Stage, are preparing for musical dramas this Christmas with two works, Hoang Tu Gau va Hat Dau Than (Bear Prince and Magic Beans) and 12 Ba Mu (Twelve Midwives).

Directed by Dinh Toan, Hoang Tu Gau va Hat Dau Than is about a Bear Prince and the magical adventures and obstacles he encounters in his life.

Despite the challenges that befall him, the prince continues to believe in love and offers help to others.

The VND300 million (US$14,000) - production was first staged in September, and has attracted both parents and their kids.

Its new version will be staged on Friday, featuring veteran actors Thanh Loc and My Duyen.

"The Christmas performances are our opportunity to make an impression and show drama lovers what we can do," said up-and-coming theatre talent Toan.

"We've worked under a lot of pressure, so we hope we can dazzle our young audiences and their parents as well," he added.

Toan's staff will display skills in music, dance, pantomime and circus tricks.

Last week, young audiences screamed and laughed at the opening show of 12 Ba Mu.

Directed by Vu Minh, the comedy has a mixture of traditional and modern styles.

It soon became so popular that ticket buyers had to stand in long lines at the box office.

According to IDECAF's art director Thanh Loc, costume designers and specialists in sound and light have added a realistic element to the play through beautiful clothes, accessories and interior designs suited to the play's theme.

Hoang Tu Gau va Hat Dau Than and 12 Ba Mu are staged every night, from December 15-24, at 8pm at Ben Thanh Theatre, 6 Mac Dinh Chi Street, District 1. — VNS