Professional folk theatre festival in the nation-wide has taken place half way. Twice a day, seven judges have been working hard to select good plays and best actors/actresses. It is special this year since there is only one female judge – People’s Artist Bach Tuyet. Theatre newspaper had a quick interview with her for comments about the festival activities.
How do you feel as you are the only female judge in the Professional Folk Theatre Festival this year?
P.A. BACH TUYET: Thank you. Same with other six judges, I am proud to be a judge in the Professional Folk Theatre Festival in 2012. In the judge’s role, I feel lucky to have the opportunity to watch and comment the plays from all ensembles from everywhere in the country. We provide honest and good observations and comments about current situation of the folk music in the country. This is the expectation for everyone who contributes efforts to the folk music.
From the judge’s point of view, could you comment briefly about the plays?
P.A. BACH TUYET: Until now, we have seen over 10 plays from different ensembles. We have a rough understanding about the situation of folk music in the provinces. The plays were invested and practiced carefully. Some plays with good themes and content reflect the reality of today society. Additionally, some stage designs are new with breakthroughs in scene settings and smooth combination between music and acting. However, some plays did not demonstrate the themes due to unreasonable script selection, complicated and expensive stage designs. The art elements of the stage were limited. Directors did not teach actors/actresses how to act in character. It results in their action becoming ineffective on the stage. I hope the rest of the plays will overcome the above mistakes.
In your opinion, could you please share some remarks of this festival although it is just half way?
P.A. BACH TUYET: I know it’s not accurate to comment when many things are still going on. Up to now, in my view, there have been positive changes in the festival. It makes young generations have a good view about true folk music. That is “reformed performance for civilization, passing on history and story through modern opera.” In addition, the festival board has created opportunities for ensembles to participate. It accomplished the mission of bridging folk music to the audiences. It is proved by full auditorium hall in every performance.
How do you evaluate young actors/actresses in this festival?
P.A. BACH TUYET: P.A. Phung Ha used to say “Don’t think that I am your teacher because I performed well and have good techniques … I am teaching you and also learning from you.” It is now the same for me. I get the freshness, youth and passion from young actors and actresses in every performance. Most of contestants were trained well and professionally. They are very confident and graceful in performing. I think it is a good sign for Vietnamese folk music. This is a new change with a fresh force of young actors and actresses and with an enthusiastic generation.
Many thanks for your time.
Interviewed by: Phương Du