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The Truong An No 1 Tuong troupe performs at Dao Duy Tu temple |
There were three Tuong (classical drama) troupes in Hoai Nhon District, but they haven’t operated for over 10 years. The locals who love Tuong worried about this. Many were, therefore, really happy when Truong An No 1 Tuong troupe was licensed to perform in Hoai Nhon.
The establishment of Truong An No 1 troupe could be a positive sign, particularly when some have been consigned to oblivion.
The Cau ngu festival (festival of fishermen praying for fruitful catches) annually take place in six fishing villages in Hoai Nhon with many festivities, including Tuong performance. The Tuong troupe is a must-have issue, meeting the people’s demand on such occasions.
Pham Van Thao and Nguyen Thi Lan, who are a couple, are in charge of the troupe. When I came to their house, they were preparing for a tour in Ly Son of Quang Ngai province.
Their faces lighted up with happiness when talking about their performances. “Several years previously the troupe only performed in the district,” Thao said. “But after getting licensed, the troupe needs to be improved.”
They invested VND100 million in buying new musical instruments and costumes. They also signed contracts with some artists to perform.
Smiling happily, Lan said the troupe has performed in many places, including Tay Son, Phu My, Quy Nhon, Hoai Nhon, Phu Yen, and Quang Ngai. They were warmly welcomed everywhere.
The troupe had an unforgettable experience when performing at Dao Duy Tu temple. Many people enjoyed the performance despite heavy rain.
Devoting all to Tuong, they expect to preserve the traditional art which is managing to survive.
The couple has devoted their time and money to set up a Tuong troupe for the past eight years.
Thao loved Tuong when he was a child. Growing up, he performed at many troupes. Lan also a Tuong lover. They met and got married.
After performing everywhere, they decided to return to Truong An No 1 hamlet, Lan’s home town, and established a Tuong club.
“At that time each member had their own jobs and their life was really hard,” he recalled. “The club didn’t have many shows; thus, there wasn’t enough money for us to operate the club. But we had to manage to continue performing.”
At present, there are 12 Tuong troupes in Binh Dinh. This shows the eternal love for traditional art. However, it still requires the support from relevant bodies for the sustainable and long-term development.
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