HCM CITY– A traditional theatre programme offering tuồng and hát bội (classical dramas) performances free will begin this month on HCM City’s Bùi Viện Walking Street, as part of the city’s efforts to attract visitors.  

The event, Giới Thiệu Nghệ Thuật Hát Bội (Introducing Vietnamese Classical Dramas), will feature veteran and young performers of the HCM City Hát Bội Theatre.   

Directed by veteran artist Đinh Bằng Phi, who has more than 45 years of experience in the art, the programme offers free shows. 

“Tuồng is a very unique genre of Vietnamese theatre, originating in the 12th century,” Phi said. “Through our shows on the walking street, we hope to introduce the art to visitors who can learn about the country’s history, culture and lifestyle through tuồng.”

The first show on Monday night offered extracts from Trảm Trịnh Ân (Kill Trịnh Ân) and San Hậu (The Reign), both featuring historic events of the 18th century. It starred young talents Linh Phước, Thanh Trang and Bảo Châu.

“Our actors are young but their performances left a very strong impression on audiences,” said  artist Nguyễn Hoàn, the show’s director.

Each 60-minute show will offer three extracts from historical plays by authors such as Đào Tấn, Tống Phước Phổ and Nguyễn Hiền Dĩnh.

“We hope our performances will attract more visitors to Bùi Viện Walking Street,” he said.

Several thousand local and foreign visitors have visited Bùi Viện Walking Street in District 1 since it opened last month. The street is reserved exclusively for pedestrians from 7pm to 2am on weekends.

During this time, live music performances are offered at both ends of the street, promoting both Vietnamese folk songs and international music.  

Free wi-fi services, public toilets and other tourist-related services are available.VNS