The stage flame keeper in everyday life.

In every person's life, there are passions that seem like mere hobbies during leisure time, but become a smoldering flame that burns throughout a lifetime. For veteran Hoang Thi Hai, a member of the Long Binh Ward Arts Club and choreographer of the Anh Duong Club (Long Binh Ward), that flame takes the form of the stage, of folk dances, of Cheo and Quan Ho melodies, and even the lively drumming of festivals echoing through the city streets.

Ms. Hoang Thi Hai participated in acting in plays at the radio and television studio of Dong Nai Newspaper and Broadcasting Station.

With over 35 years of service in the military, former soldier Hoang Thi Hai, once a major, lived amidst discipline and firmness, yet her heart always beat to the rhythm of art, of gentleness and subtlety. She is a soldier who never puts aside her passion, an artist who never steps off the stage of life.

Passion for the arts

Born in 1957, Ms. Hoang Thi Hai served in the military for 35 years, stationed at the Long Binh General Warehouse in Dong Nai province. Ms. Hai recounts that during her time in the army, she developed a passion for performing arts. Knowledgeable in music theory and choreography, she volunteered to participate in all-army performances whenever the opportunity arose. It wasn't just because she loved it, but because she felt that in each melody and each dance move, a part of herself was truly alive, breathing deeply from her heart.

Ms. Hoang Thi Hai (center) participates in a cultural performance. Photo: Hien Luong

After retiring in 2007, she didn't rest but embarked on another journey, a journey under the spotlight. She joined the Long Binh Ward Arts Club. Without a fixed headquarters or complete equipment, but with passion and enthusiasm, she has been involved with the club for the past 18 years. Later, when the Anh Duong Club was established in Long Binh Ward, she was invited to join the Executive Board as a choreographer.

For her, each rehearsal for the performing arts event is not simply about practicing many songs or beautiful dances, but also an opportunity to meet, share, and spread positive energy to each other. Even when she comes home tired and hoarse from rehearsals, she still feels lighthearted.

"When I'm happy, the people around me are happy too, and an optimistic spirit leads to good health," Mrs. Hai shared.

For Ms. Hoang Thi Hai, a member of the Long Binh Ward Arts Club, art is not for showing off. It is a way for people to live more beautifully, understand each other better, and preserve traditional values ​​that are gradually fading in the rhythm of modern life.

Live healthy, live happily, live joyfully.

Currently, the Long Binh Ward Arts Club has 10 members who regularly practice. From folk dance, Cheo singing, Quan Ho singing, to theatrical performances, every activity bears the mark of her direction and choreography. She not only teaches dance but also stage presence and emotional expression. Therefore, the amateur performers in the club feel more confident each time they perform because of Ms. Hai's dedicated guidance. The club has won many awards at various festivals and competitions.

Ms. Hoang Thi Hai is also the soul of every artistic performance. From idea generation, music selection, scriptwriting, choreography, and stage design, she handles every task, big or small. She has staged hundreds of artistic performances, from short skits and folk dances to performances praising her homeland and country. All bear the distinct mark of an artist who has lived and dedicated herself wholeheartedly. For her, art is not just a hobby but also a way for her to live healthily, happily, and contentedly. Even when tired or burdened with household chores, all fatigue disappears the moment she steps onto the stage.

Without the glamour of a professional stage, a high salary, or fancy titles, Ms. Hoang Thi Hai quietly dedicates herself every day with pure passion and an unyielding heart. Each day, the small stage at the neighborhood cultural center remains lit. And in that light, a woman continues to regularly inspire, inspire, and instill a love of life in generations.

Mr. Dam Van Nhuong, Head of Block 31, Long Binh Ward, Dong Nai Province, commented: “Ms. Hai is one of the outstanding figures in the arts and culture movement in the neighborhood. She is enthusiastic, responsible, talented, and very sociable, so the elderly here really like her. Whenever there are activities of the ward or neighborhood, she always takes the lead in participating, contributing to creating a lively atmosphere and bringing everyone together.”

Amidst the ever-changing pace of modern life, seemingly small values ​​become incredibly precious. Like how Mrs. Hai preserves the soul of national culture through the melodies of traditional Vietnamese opera and folk songs. Like how she cultivates a stage for the community where people can sing, dance, and be themselves. And so, her artistic journey, though not as dazzling as fireworks, is enduring enough to warm a realm of memories, sincere enough to touch the hearts of those who have listened, watched, and smiled with emotion.

Hien Luong

Source: https://baodongnai.com.vn/van-hoa/202510/nguoi-giu-lua-san-khau-giua-doi-thuong-99a26df/