Cricket takes to the musical stage.

Following recent animated films and comic book adaptations, the image of the cricket from writer Tô Hoài's *The Adventures of the Cricket* continues to thrive through the musical *The Cricket's Side Story*.

Instead of strictly adhering to the original story, the performance is creatively adapted in a new direction, blending familiar and novel elements, harmonizing modernity and tradition. In this work, audiences of all ages will "live" with the Cricket through the language of theater, combining music , lighting, and dance. The purely Vietnamese element is prioritized, evoking national cultural identity through costumes, props, music, and settings. This is harmoniously interwoven with modern storytelling and innovative theatrical techniques, utilizing advanced lighting and sound technology.

The first performance is scheduled to take place on the evening of October 25th at the Military Zone 7 Gymnasium, Ho Chi Minh City.

PHOTO: BTC

Behind the production of "The Cricket's Side Story" are artistic director Nguyen Phuc Hai and stage director Nguyen Phuc Hung. Both have many years of experience in contemporary dance and ballet, having participated in and staged many acclaimed works such as "Kieu," "Carmen," and "Swan Lake ." Meanwhile, the music for the performance was specially composed by musician Viet Anh, combining Vietnamese elements, contemporary musical theater language, and classical music under the direction of conductor Tran Nhat Minh. The vocalists include Meritorious Artist Khanh Ngoc, Phuong Vy, Dao Mac, and many other talented performers.

The first performance is scheduled to take place on the evening of October 25th at the Military Zone 7 Gymnasium, Ho Chi Minh City.

PHOTO: BTC

Director Van Trinh, representing the production unit, revealed that the musical is part of the larger De Men Creative ecosystem, aiming to build internationally-standard Vietnamese cultural and musical products, attract multi-generational audiences, contribute to the aesthetic and artistic education of children, create a cultural highlight, and promote the image of Vietnam in the era of integration. But first and foremost, "De Men: The Prequel " promises to be a "cultural meeting point" for families and a unique highlight for tourists visiting Vietnam.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/de-men-len-san-khau-nhac-kich-185251012232853281.htm