A highlight is the 2,000-seat main stage, approximately 24 meters high, designed with a 360-degree view, offering spectators a complete perspective. A representative from the management unit noted that the lighting and sound systems are invested to meet the standards for staging large-scale circus productions.

Located on Lu Gia street, adjacent to the Phu Tho stadium and racecourse in former District 11, the theater was completed after over two years of construction. On the morning of 18/4, hundreds of pre-registered spectators arrived to explore the venue and stage architecture.

The building features two basement floors and 12 above-ground floors, spanning a total area of over 31,600 square meters, funded by the Ho Chi Minh City (TP HCM) budget. Tran The Thuan, director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Culture and Sports, previously stated that this is an international-standard facility equipped with modern technology, meeting the requirements for large-scale circus performances. The project aims to diversify circus arts and meet the public's growing demand.

The stage has three levels, forming a multi-functional area for various programs. Some rows of seats can be folded back to expand the performance space. The floor is designed to accommodate different circus acts, capable of supporting the weight of animals such as elephants and horses.

An automated water stage system is enabled by a large underground water tank that can be raised and lowered, supporting high-skill performances. The theater is designed for a lifespan of 100 years.

Artists rehearse "Vung Dat Ky Bi" (Mysterious Land), a show that captivated audiences of the Phuong Nam Art Theater in 2025.

Artists rehearse on the water stage. Video: Mai Nhat

The circus will host the Ho Chi Minh City International Circus Festival in november. A representative from the Ho Chi Minh City Art Center, the facility's managing and operating unit, confirmed that troupes from many countries have accepted invitations to participate in the festival.

At the end of the tour, many spectators were invited to wear protective gear, try operating water puppets, and take souvenir photos with the artists.

Ngoc Diem, three years old, touches a water puppet. Her mother stated that their family lives near the theater and has long anticipated its opening. Upon learning that the management was offering the first tours for the public, she and her husband registered their child, knowing she enjoys watching circus performances.

Artists rehearse a puppet show on the water stage.

According to event organizers, after the registration link opened, nearly 1,900 people signed up within four days. The management continues to welcome visitors on 19/4, 16 and 17/5.

In addition to the main stage, the facility includes other sections nearing completion, such as a 300-seat auditorium suitable for events and conferences.

The Phu Tho circus and multi-functional performing arts theater is one of eight major cultural projects slated for new construction in TP HCM. The remaining seven projects include the Ton Duc Thang Museum, the city's Cultural Center, the Traditional Arts Center, the Ho Chi Minh City Museum, the expansion of the Ho Chi Minh Museum Park, the Youth Cultural House, and the city's Children's Palace.

Mai Nhat - Thanh Tung