Young cheo actress Thanh Tuyet

HCM CITY  (VNS) — Thanh Tuyet, a hugely popular actress among those who love cheo (traditional opera), has released her first album, a blend of old songs.

The Ha Noi-based artist worked with her producer, theatre director Si Khoa, in co-operation with actors Van Chuong, Quang Hoan and Tuan Dung, to fine-tune her music.

Khac Khoai Nam Canh (Sleepless Night) features seven classical extracts from popular traditional dramas like Tam Cam and Kim Nham that focus on women and love.

As is her style, Tuyet's voice on the album is strong and sweet, with no artificial modulations.

"Cheo is like a river that runs in my soul," explained Tuyet, who said her voice becomes stronger and more powerful when she performs traditional music.

While many young artists think cheo needs adjustments in performance and script, Tuyet wants to maintain the traditional styles.

"I don't think we should to reform the country's traditional dramas, and cheo in particular," she said. "Changing cheo is difficult because its form is based on old stories. The rules of cheo should be maintained."

Tuyet's art isn't as fashionable as pop stars, but she's more popular. She was selected to work for the Cheo Army Theatre in Ha Noi, one of the region's leading traditional theatres, after graduating in cheo from the Ha Noi University of Cinematography and Theatre.

With her beauty and strong voice, Tuyet has participated in national traditional music festivals and won several top prizes.

The 24 year-old hopes that her album, Nam Canh Khac Khoai, will better connect young people with cheo.

"I sing cheo with my soul, my blood and my passion," she said. — VNS