HCM CITY (VNS)— A new traditional-theatre performance staged twice a month at HCM City's Opera House is attracting a growing number of foreign viewers.

The new programme, called Lan Dieu Phuong Nam (Music of the South), was invested in by the Centre of Performance Organisation and Cinema, an entertainment company with experience in the industry.

The performances, which are adapted for foreign audiences, feature cai luong (reformed opera) and vong co (traditional tunes), two popular genres of traditional theatre in the south.

Performer Bach Long, who has taught many cai luong stars including Que Tran and Vu Luan, said that foreigners were excited about the performances.

"A quality programme of talented performers that will stage songs and plays mainly for foreigners has been my wish for many years," he added.

Long and his students, including Luan, Tu Suong and Trinh Trinh, have signed a long-term contract to perform for Lan Dieu Phuong Nam.

"We hope to introduce Viet Nam's traditional art and music to visitors, particularly foreigners, who can learn many valuable things about the country, history, culture and traditional lifestyles through our shows," said the 52-year-old.

Although Long and his colleagues know they will face challenges along the way, they believe in the future.

The programme opened last month, with a special show called Vang Trang Me (Mother Moon) featuring songs and dances in praise of southern women.

In the coming weeks, they will present Ky Uc Mua Xuan (Memories of Spring) with young actors like Vo Thanh Phe and Thanh Tam, who have won top prizes at prestigious cai luong contests and festivals.

Unique

"Our country's traditional theatre and cai luong in particular are unique. Our young actors should find a way to expand our art forms," said Phe, winner of the Vong Co Golden Bell Award in 2008, a competition held every two years by HCM City Television. The award was created to support young talent in cai luong and vong co.

"My roots are in traditional theatre, and I want to bring it to people around the world," said Phe, adding that he had turned down attractive invitations from other producers so that he could join the programme.

Schedules and tickets for the up-coming shows of Lan Dieu Phuong Nam are available at the Opera House's box office at 7 Lam Son Square in District 1. — VNS