On 19/3, the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Culture and Sports confirmed it is taking action against Bum Bum, whose real name is Vo Thi Thuy Dung, for performing an unlicensed segment of the classic cai luong play "Tieng Trong Me Linh". The department stated that the organizing unit of the "Tu Tinh Phuong Nam 4" show, where the performance took place, showed signs of violation by including the "Me Linh Biet Khuc" segment, which was not on the registered list. The department has worked with the organizers, who admitted the violation, and is now completing its file to proceed with legal action.
In mid-March, a video circulated on social media showing Bum Bum, daughter of artist Tieu Linh (artist Vu Linh's sister), portraying Trung Trac in a segment from "Tieng Trong Me Linh". The performance was part of the "Tu Tinh Phuong Nam 4" program, held at Hong Lien Theater, Hau Giang Cultural Center in Binh Tay ward, TP HCM.
Vu Linh's niece transforms into Trung Trac in a segment from the play "Tieng Trong Me Linh". Video: TikTok Dong Sai Gon
The performance drew strong reactions from many audience members, who criticized the singing, pronunciation, choreography, and expressions as amateurish and immature. In one scene, Bum Bum received much criticism for portraying Trung Trac wearing a mourning scarf that covered her face, creating an aesthetically displeasing effect. Many suggested the actress "ruined" one of the classic figures of cai luong theater.
Director Thanh Hiep, head of the Theory and Criticism Board of the TP HCM Stage Artists Association, commented that the performance caused outrage because "Tieng Trong Me Linh" is a golden-age cai luong work associated with artist Thanh Nga. Hiep stated, "A public performance segment lacked seriousness in both costume and professional singing and acting techniques." Actress Bum Bum admitted shortcomings in taking on a challenging role, but also stated she had tried to learn and practice before performing in front of hundreds of spectators.
The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Culture and Sports clarified that the "Tu Tinh Phuong Nam 4" show itself was licensed, and its art council conducted an appraisal before the program. However, the inclusion of the "Me Linh Biet Khuc" segment was the specific violation. The department added that it encourages the re-performance of classic cai luong roles and segments. A department representative stated, "For exemplary works and roles with academic significance, high ideological, and artistic value, young artists need to diligently cultivate knowledge, technical expertise, maintain a receptive attitude, actively learn, and consider carefully before performing in public. This is a necessary respect for traditional art and the audience."
A segment from "Tieng Trong Me Linh". Video: Thanh Nga Cai Luong Troupe
"Tieng Trong Me Linh" first premiered in 1977, revolving around the Trung Sisters' uprising. The play gathered many talented actors who had won Thanh Tam awards, such as Thanh Nga, Hung Minh, Bich Son, Thanh Sang, and Bao Quoc. The work helped establish Thanh Nga (as Trung Trac) and Thanh Sang (as Thi Sach) as leading names of cai luong's golden age. Director Ngo Y Linh's rendition is considered a benchmark for subsequent generations of artists when restaging the play. In 2025, the play was voted one of the 10 typical theatrical works of TP HCM, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of national reunification.
Mai Nhat
