New artistic language: South Korean dancer Chun Yoo-Ih. — Photo courtesy of the organiser

HCM CITY (VNS)  — The life of the last prince of Viet Nam's Ly dynasty, Ly Long Tuong who lived in exile in Korea in the early of the 13th century, will be depicted early next month by a South Korean dancer, a Vietnamese dramatic actor and a German musician.

The story centres on Tuong who had to escape from a rebellion and sail on a distant sea route, the organisers said at a press briefing earlier this week in HCM City.

At the end of a long voyage, he landed at Ongjin land on southern Korea Peninsula (known as the Goryeo nation at the time).

The Vietnamese prince not only helped defeat a band of pirates who had caused problems for the local people, but also repulsed Mongol troops with his courage and unsurpassed resourcefulness.

He served the Goryeo nation in a high ranking position, and his sons were appointed to govern areas as well.

About 2,000 descendents of the Ly dynasty have lived in South Korea over the last 800 years.

Based on a true story, the script for 800 Nam Hen Uoc (Promise to 800) was written by stage director Jung Sun-goo and the choreography is by dancer Chun Yoo-oh.

The dance will be performed by dancer Chun, dramatic actor Bui Nhu Lai, and musician Peter Schindler.

According to the organisers, the drama dance presents a "new artistic language", which involves dancing, drama and live music.

Choreographer and businesswoman Chun has lived in HCM City for 10 years. In 2014 she choreographed and acted in Arirang Saigon staged at the HCM City Opera House.

800 Nam Hen Uoc is the reunion between Chun and director Jung, who staged Cross-Bow, a dance based on Viet Nam's historic story Princess My Chau at the city's Opera House in June.

The role of Ly Chieu Hoang, the last queen of the Dai Viet state, will be played by Chun.

Dramatic actor Lai has more than 10 years of experience in a wide range of activities. He has received many awards for acting in Viet Nam as well as other countries, including China, Egypt, Thailand and Cambodia.

German pianist and jazz player Schindler, who will play the piano and organ, has released 10 CDs and composed music for opera and TV dramas.

He worked with the South Korean national dance company on the piece Soul Sunflower for more than three years. He is also the leader of the well-known jazz group SaltaCello in South Korea.

With three artists, three countries, and three art genres, the performance is expected to be an intriguing evening at the Opera House in District 1 on December 1, and at Au Co Performing Centre in Ha Noi on December 4.

Free tickets are available at the venue. — VNS