Circus Artist Thanh Hoa Graduates as Director with 'Thanh Giong' Production

The vibrant spirit of Vietnamese traditional arts is being revitalized through innovative interpretations, and the recent graduation of circus artist Thanh Hoa as a director with her production of 'Thanh Giong' is a testament to this. As reported by Tuổi Trẻ, Thanh Hoa, known for her prowess in aerial acts, has channeled her passion for Vietnamese folklore and history into a unique theatrical experience. Her choice to adapt the legend of Thanh Giong, a national hero, for the circus medium demonstrates a deep understanding of how to blend cultural heritage with contemporary performance art.

This production is more than just an academic requirement; it's a personal journey for Thanh Hoa, who aims to bring Vietnamese history to life in a way that captivates audiences. The integration of aerial silks, fire stunts, and even a portrayal of Giong's legendary iron horse, showcases the versatility of circus arts in depicting epic tales. The involvement of her own daughter, Phương Trinh, as the young Giong, adds a touching familial dimension to the performance, highlighting the intergenerational transmission of cultural pride and artistic talent.

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From a young age, I loved fairy tales and history, stories about the historical heroes of the Vietnamese nation. So when I chose a play for my graduation, I thought of the character Thanh Giong, because Hoa believes that with this character, she can use the language of circus to express the will and extraordinary strength of Thanh Giong.

From our perspective at Tuổi Trẻ, Thanh Hoa's 'Thanh Giong' represents a significant achievement not only for her but for the broader arts scene in Ho Chi Minh City and Vietnam. While international audiences might see this as a novel fusion of genres, we recognize it as a powerful affirmation of our national identity and storytelling traditions. The challenges faced, such as limited rehearsal time due to venue conflicts, only underscore the dedication and creativity of Thanh Hoa and her team. Her aspiration is not merely to graduate, but to evoke awe and appreciation, proving that even seemingly 'dry' historical subjects can be rendered exhilarating through the dynamic language of circus. This is about celebrating our heroes and ensuring their stories resonate with new generations, using art forms that are uniquely Vietnamese.

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The first time undertaking a new role made Hoa feel very pressured. The circus theater had a packed schedule of events, so Hoa and her crew didn't have much time to rehearse, which was also a difficulty for Hoa during the process of making the play.