Cải Lương, VIETNAMESE OPERA
or also known as VIETNAMESE RENOVATED OPERA is a type of theatre that was
developed in the early 20th century. It was first played by amateurs in southern
Vietnam. Cải Lương may have many similarities with Chinese Opera. It is
unique in that the themes of the plays traditionally are derived from hitorical
legends and folklore. Many tells stories of Emperors and empires of Vietname. A Cải Lương orchestra consists
primarily of guitars with concave frets and danakim. Over time, Cải Lương has
grown to become a highly appreciated type of stage performing art.
Famous Vietnamese Opera performers in
this year's Tết Festival include Phượng Mai and Tuấn Châu. In their traditional
Vietnamese clothing, these performers will tell a story in a form of a
conversation but through the medium of lyrics and with musical accompaniment.
The audience will have the opportunity to experience an unique form of music
that intends to draw the listeners into the experience, the same emotional state
as the performers and finds how the characters rise to resolve their challenges
through the themes of morality, empathy, and compassion.