CaliToday (28/9/2025): The vibrant world of Vietnamese traditional opera is buzzing with anticipation as the nation prepares for one of its most cherished cultural events: the final night of the "Chuông Vàng Vọng Cổ" (The Golden Bell of Vong Co) competition. This Sunday, the 20th anniversary of the prestigious contest will culminate in a grand finale, a glittering spectacle of music, drama, and raw vocal talent that captivates millions of fans.
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| People's Artist Que Tran and Artist Nguyen Van Hop in the opera performance "Lights on - The history of Lac Hong". Photo: THUY BINH |
For followers of Cải Lương, the beloved form of modern Southern Vietnamese folk opera, this night is the equivalent of a Super Bowl or a Eurovision final. It is the moment a new star is born and crowned, tasked with carrying the torch for a unique and deeply emotional art form.
Organized by Ho Chi Minh City Television (HTV), "Chuông Vàng Vọng Cổ" is more than just a talent show; it is a vital institution dedicated to preserving and promoting a cornerstone of Vietnam's cultural heritage. The competition seeks to discover the next generation of performers skilled in Vọng Cổ singing, the soulful and iconic melody that forms the heart of all Cải Lương plays.
What is Vọng Cổ?
Literally translating to "nostalgia for the past," Vọng Cổ is a complex and highly intricate style of singing that requires immense technical skill and emotional depth. A performer must master long, sustained vocalizations, intricate melodic patterns, and precise rhythmic control, all while conveying profound stories of love, loss, honor, and history. A powerful Vọng Cổ performance can move an audience to tears, and its masters are revered as national treasures.
The Competition and its Significance
Throughout the past few months, contestants from across the country have competed in grueling rounds, showcasing their vocal prowess and dramatic abilities. They have performed excerpts from famous Cải Lương plays, embodying historical heroes, tragic lovers, and legendary figures.
The grand finale will see the remaining finalists take the stage for their ultimate performance. Judged by a panel of esteemed veteran artists and critics, they will be evaluated on their vocal technique (hơi), emotional delivery (mùi), and stage presence (diễn). The winner will not only receive the coveted "Golden Bell" trophy but also instant recognition and a promising career in the world of traditional theater.
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, this year's event holds special significance. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Cải Lương in a rapidly modernizing world. The competition has been instrumental in keeping the art form alive, inspiring young people to learn its complexities and ensuring its stories continue to resonate with new generations.
As the final night approaches, families across Vietnam will gather around their televisions, ready to be swept away by the soaring melodies and timeless tales. It is a night of high drama, cultural pride, and heartfelt emotion, celebrating the very soul of Southern Vietnamese artistry.
