Classical Vietnamese opera in Vietnam’s southern region

Hat boi (classical Vietnamese opera) is now an old-fashioned art which only marks its presence in some parts of southern Vietnam. The artists, with a strong, profound passion, still keep their faith with this kind of art despite many difficulties.

Phuong Anh classical opera club in southern Can Tho’s Binh Thuy District uses the grounds of a village communal house as a stage to display their performances.

Phuong Anh, the leader of the club, was born to a family in which three generations have performed classical Vietnamese opera art. She followed her parents to the stage at a young age, and now has 40 years of experience in this profession.

From 1980 to 1990, when classical opera became less attractive among the public, Anh was an impresario who organized many tours across provinces in the Mekong Delta region.

In 2004, Anh came back to Can Tho and formed the Phuong Anh classical opera club, which has only performed during worship ceremonies at village communal houses.

Tan Si, 68, started his classical opera profession since the age of 15. Photo: Tuoi Tre

Classical opera is now performed on the grounds of a village communal house in a Mekong Delta province. Photo: Tuoi Tre.

An artist is seen drawing his eyebrows. Photo: Tuoi Tre

Artists carefully make up before going to the stage. Photo: Tuoi Tre

Offering incense before the performance is an indispensable ceremony of the classical opera artists. Photo: Tuoi Tre

Bao, a 5-year-old child adopted by Tan Si, has his love for classical Vietnamese opera grow as he follows his father to the stage. Photo: Tuoi Tre

During their tour that lasts three nights, the artists are all self-sufficient in terms of food and accommodation. Photo: Tuoi Tre

Phuong Anh, leader of the classical opera club, is seen preparing for her next tour in southern Soc Trang province. Photo: Tuoi Tre