The veteran actor accepted the judging role for the competition's 20th season to support the long-standing traditional Vietnamese opera event. According to Thanh Nam, while young singers today have better learning and training opportunities than previous generations, they lack performance venues for traditional music, limiting their chances to gain experience.

"Many aspiring singers struggle to find platforms to showcase their passion after completing their training. In the past, my colleagues and I performed nightly, moving from one play to another," he said.

Artist Thanh Nam at age 67. Photo: Provided by the artist

Thanh Nam stated that as a judge, he will provide candid feedback, even if it might disappoint some contestants. He emphasizes that beyond basic singing techniques and knowledge, contestants must demonstrate creativity and originality to leave a lasting impression.

Actor Thanh Nam, whose real name is Pham Hoang Nam, has worked in various fields, including traditional Vietnamese opera, comedy, and film. At 17, he joined a performing arts troupe and was mentored by artisans Tu Be and Sau Cham, learning numerous traditional Vietnamese opera pieces. His breakthrough came when he played the role of Ty, a servant to the character Duong Le in the play "Luu Binh - Duong Le."

Known by his stage name He Thanh Nam, he was voted the Most Popular Comedian by San Khau Newspaper in 1995 and 1996. He also won a Silver Medal at the 2000 National Professional Traditional Vietnamese Opera Festival, a Gold Medal at the Southern Regional Theater Festival, and numerous other awards. He was awarded the title of Meritorious Artist in 2007 and People's Artist in 2019. He is affectionately known as Hai Lua by audiences for his portrayal of honest farmers in the Mekong Delta.

Thanh Nam will judge the final round alongside artists Trong Phuc and Phuong Loan. In addition to the main panel, two veteran artists will be invited as guest judges each night. Mr. Minh Hai, head of the organizing committee, noted that a significant change this year is the involvement of former "Golden Bell" winners, such as Vo Minh Lam, Ho Ngoc Trinh, and Ngoc Doi, as judges for the preliminary rounds and as coaches.

This year, the first-place prize is 150 million VND, an increase of 50 million VND from previous seasons. To commemorate the 20th season, the organizers will hold a gala on 31/8, featuring many artists who have emerged from the competition.

Mai Nhat