'Virtuous Deity' - a form of traditional Vietnamese opera performed by young people.

The Ho Chi Minh City Traditional Opera Theatre recently premiered the play "The Virtuous General" (written by Le Cong Phuong; directed by Thanh Binh, Bao Chau, and Ngoc Giau), depicting the image of the renowned general Nguyen Cuu Dam. More than just a historical story, the play serves as a bridge connecting contemporary audiences with the efforts of our ancestors in expanding and preserving the southern territories.

Set during the period of 1768-1772 under the reign of Lord Nguyen Phuc Thuan, "Hien Than" ( Virtuous Official) recreates the turbulent era of Dang Trong (Southern Vietnam). Facing the threat of Siamese invasion of Ha Tien, the southern border was in peril, and the crucial responsibility of turning the tide fell upon the shoulders of the talented and virtuous Commander Nguyen Cuu Dam (played by Ha Tri Nhon). Appointed by Lord Nguyen as Imperial Commissioner and Commander-in-Chief, he and his troops faced arduous challenges.

The author has portrayed Nguyen Cuu Dam in a multifaceted way. He was both a brilliant military strategist with bold military decisions and a visionary strategist with a deep understanding of state-run affairs, not only thinking about immediate victory but also about the sustainable development of the entire region. After suppressing foreign invaders, he ordered the construction of the Ban Bich rampart and the Ma Truong (Ruot Ngua) canal, transforming Gia Dinh into a strong fortress and a solid outpost.

Ha Tri Nhon plays Nguyen Cuu Dam, Chau Thanh Mong plays Mac Lan Huong

PHOTO: HK

Furthermore, the play delves deeply into humanistic aspects. These include the sacrifice of Mac Lan Huong (played by Chau Thanh Mong), the wife who always stood by her husband, accepting the sacrifice to protect her homeland. Or the internal struggle as he overcame personal hatred to choose a path of peace and friendly relations, preventing the people from suffering due to war. It is this virtue and foresight that shaped the character of a wise and benevolent minister.

Modern staging makes the historical story more relatable, accessible, and engaging for the younger generation, while still preserving the essence of traditional Vietnamese opera. Classic opera performances are showcased through graceful and beautiful choreography. Actors Ha Tri Nhon, Chau Thanh Mong, Thanh Binh, Dong Ho, Minh Khuong, Bao Chau, Hoang Duy, Meritorious Artist Linh Phuoc, and Hoang Ha are worthy successors to Vietnamese opera.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/hien-than-hat-boi-cua-nguoi-tre-185251007222654176.htm