Gen Z keeps traditional Vietnamese opera alive in Quang Nam

In April, the grounds of Tran Hung Dao Secondary School in Da Nang were alive with the sound of drums as Gen Z actors performed a scene from Tran Quoc Toan, showcasing patriotism. The performers, only 10-15 years older than the students, are part of the Nguyen Hien Dinh Tuồng Theater's promising new generation.

Le Van Tien (from Tien Phuoc) said that he found his motivation to pursue Tuồng when he was 17. Another person, Tran Vu Quynh (from Duy Xuyen) also overcame doubts, facing teasing as a young student of Tuồng but eventually succeeding through persistence.

Both were discovered during talent searches in 2016. After four years of intense training in Hanoi, they joined the Nguyen Hien Dinh Tuồng Theatre in 2020.

Trinh Ky Vu (from Hiep Duc), introduced to traditional music early by his composer father and folk singer mother, excelled in Tuồng under the guidance of veteran artists, winning second place for his role in Đổng Kim Lân at the 2023 National Talent Competition.

Phan Tung Lam (from Hiep Ducc), mentored by his uncle Phan Van Quang, emphasises promoting Tuồng through school programs to inspire future artists.

Tran Vu Quynh, who discovered Tuồng at 14, now brings it closer to students and travellers through live performances, believing public stage promotions are key to reaching international audiences.

People's Artist Phan Van Quang states that Tuồng requires rigorous training, with great performers needing voice, beauty, sophistication, energy, spirit, and charisma. Gen Z performers at the Nguyen Hien Dinh Tuồng Theatre give hope for its future.