The theatrical production subtly yet vehemently reflects the silent, relentless struggle for personal happiness and family amidst life’s challenges.
The Hanoi Drama Theatre is set to showcase the revived rendition of “Blank Space,” a production that commenced rehearsals in June 2023.
“Blank Space” originally graced the stage in 1997 at the Hanoi Drama Theatre and stood out as an outstanding performance, clinching numerous prestigious awards. The play featured renowned artists such as People’s Artist Hoang Dung, People’s Artist Tran Duc, People’s Artist Thu Ha, Kim Chi, etc., and was penned by the late author Nguyen Anh Bien, directed by Meritorious Artist Hoang Quan Tao.
The fresh interpretation by the Hanoi Drama Theatre this time is under the direction of Director and People’s Artist Trung Hieu. The 2023 rendition of “Blank Space” features Nguyen Anh Bien as the author, Meritorious Artist Hoang Ha Tung as the illustrator, and musician Tuan Nghia as the composer.
“Blank Space” weaves a tale of a tumultuous love triangle, wrought with injustice, involving intellectual individuals. To preserve their reputations and the tranquility of their families, they suppress their true feelings, choosing to accept and respect each other. They embrace a happiness that is superficial, calculated, and laden with deceit. In “Blank Space,” happiness is merely an outer garment concealing the festering wounds within: a beautiful woman exploiting her husband’s position, academic credentials, and prestige for her selfish motives, ascending to the role of a cunning mistress. She possesses a beautiful house, and a luxurious status, yet lacks genuine love. When her husband discovers her infidelity, he handles the situation with cultural grace, subjecting his wife to constant torment and agony.
The play eloquently mirrors the silent yet resolute, arduous, and intense struggle for personal happiness and family happiness, encapsulating the profound battles faced by individuals and families.
The performance boasts the participation of promising actors from the Hanoi Drama Theatre, including Meritorious Artist Quang Thang, Ngoc Quynh, Thanh Tung, Thuy Duong, Xuan Hong, Thuy Anh, Huyen Thach, To Uyen, Dang Tung, Tran Thanh, Hong Lien, and Cong Dai.
The artistic direction is under the guidance of the Director and People’s Artist Nguyen Trung Hieu. Scheduled for September 2023, the Hanoi Drama Theatre’s upcoming presentation of “Blank Space” promises a poignant and thought-provoking experience.
Quynh Quy