Grand Circus Theater Unveiled as HCMC’s Premier Venue for International Performances
The newly completed Rạp Xiếc Phú Thọ, located on Lữ Gia Road near the Phú Thọ Racecourse and the old District 11, officially opened to the public on April 18. The 31,600-square-meter complex, funded by Ho Chi Minh City’s municipal budget, features 12 above-ground floors and two basements, marking a significant investment in the city’s cultural infrastructure. Director Trần Thế Thuận of the Department of Culture and Sports emphasized the theater’s international standards, highlighting its advanced equipment to host large-scale circus performances.
The opening day saw hundreds of pre-registered attendees tour the facility, which includes a 2,000-seat main stage designed for 360-degree views. The venue’s modular design allows for flexible configurations, accommodating diverse performances from traditional to experimental acts. Its construction, spanning over two years, reflects the city’s commitment to modernizing its cultural landscape.
The theater’s centerpiece, a 24-meter-high stage with a water-based system, was showcased during the event. This innovative feature, which uses an underground reservoir to create dynamic effects, is designed for high-tech performances. The structure is built to last a century, ensuring its relevance for future generations of artists and audiences.
State-of-the-Art Stages and Advanced Technology Set New Standards
The main stage’s three-tiered layout supports multi-functional use, from circus acts to theatrical productions. Its adjustable seating and reinforced flooring are engineered to withstand the weight of animals like elephants and horses, a critical detail for large-scale performances. The venue’s lighting and sound systems, described as cutting-edge, are expected to meet the demands of international touring companies.
A highlight of the tour was the water stage, where performers practiced routines for the upcoming *Ký ức hỏa thần* production. This system, which automatically raises and lowers a water-filled platform, allows for seamless transitions between aerial and aquatic acts. The technology, combined with the theater’s acoustic design, positions it as a benchmark for modern circus venues.
The facility’s additional amenities, such as a 300-seat auditorium for smaller events, underscore its role as a cultural hub. Its inclusion in HCMC’s list of eight major cultural projects, alongside landmarks like the Tôn Đức Thắng Museum and the Youth Palace, signals its importance in the city’s long-term vision.
Public Excitement and Cultural Impact Signal New Era for Circus Arts
Over 1,900 visitors signed up for the opening tour within four days, with many families expressing enthusiasm for the venue’s potential. Children like 3-year-old Ngọc Điềm, who touched the water stage during the event, embodied the public’s anticipation. Parents noted the theater’s accessibility, with its proximity to residential areas and planned public tours.
The venue will host the HCMC International Circus Festival in November, drawing international troupes. Organizers highlighted the strong interest from foreign delegations, indicating the theater’s role in elevating the city’s global artistic profile. Performers rehearsed routines like the *rối nước* (water puppetry) act, blending traditional and contemporary styles.
With its blend of cutting-edge technology and cultural heritage, the Rạp Xiếc Phú Thọ is poised to redefine the circus landscape in Vietnam. Its completion marks a pivotal moment for HCMC’s cultural ambitions, offering both local and international artists a platform to innovate and thrive.
Conclusion
The grand opening of HCMC’s new circus theater underscores its transformative role in the city’s cultural ecosystem. As the venue prepares to host international festivals and groundbreaking performances, its legacy as a symbol of artistic ambition and modernity is already taking shape.
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