Artist Võ Minh Lâm Judges "Golden Rice Ear" Competition, Recalls Portraying Cao Văn Lầu

The prestigious "Bông lúa vàng" (Golden Rice Ear) competition, a cornerstone of Vietnamese cải lương and đờn ca tài tử for over three decades, has appointed the celebrated artist Võ Minh Lâm as a judge for its 33rd season. This significant role underscores Lâm's standing in the traditional arts scene and highlights the competition's commitment to integrating fresh, youthful perspectives into its evaluation process.

For Võ Minh Lâm, this appointment is deeply personal. He shared with Tuổi Trẻ Online his fond memories of listening to "Bông lúa vàng" on the radio in his hometown of Cần Thơ, a childhood passion that eventually led him to pursue a career in cải lương. While he ultimately chose to participate in a television competition that offered greater visibility, his admiration for "Bông lúa vàng" has remained steadfast, recognizing it as a vital platform for aspiring artists.

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The contestants of Bông lúa vàng have a simplicity and sincerity that is very endearing. The age range for participants is broad, so sometimes... the whole family who loves cải lương can compete. Seeing parents and children singing together makes me emotional. That atmosphere reminds me of when I participated in the Ninh Kiều đờn ca tài tử club (Cần Thơ City), which was also simple, lovely, and singing with such passion!

Lâm's return to the "Bông lúa vàng" competition, particularly his judging duties at the memorial site of the renowned musician Cao Văn Lầu in Cà Mau, carries profound emotional weight. Cao Văn Lầu is revered as the composer of "Dạ cổ hoài lang," the foundational piece from which modern vọng cổ, the king of cải lương, evolved. Lâm himself portrayed Cao Văn Lầu in the 2014 film "Tơ đồng vương vấn," adding another layer of connection to this significant cultural landmark.

The "Bông lúa vàng" competition is celebrated for its ability to foster a warm, familial atmosphere, with participants often including entire families who share a passion for cải lương. This unique environment, characterized by its simplicity and heartfelt performances, reminds Lâm of his own early days participating in traditional music clubs. His presence as a judge is expected to bring not only his artistic expertise but also a deep appreciation for the cultural heritage that "Bông lúa vàng" represents.

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Being able to visit this place again and listen to the songs and voices of the contestants makes me very emotional. I remember the moments when I embodied Mr. Sáu, sharing his sorrows through every frame of the film. Now, being able to find new voices and potential for cải lương right here where he is honored makes me even more appreciative.