Why is the circus show “Mysterious Land” selling out continuously, with audiences filling every seat? (Video: Cam Tien).
Recently, the circus performance Mysterious Land has taken Ho Chi Minh City by storm. For the first time, a Vietnamese circus show has gained massive popularity on TikTok, garnering hundreds of thousands of views per clip and receiving positive feedback from both viewers and industry experts.
Initially, the circus was scheduled for 18 performances over 10 days during the Lunar New Year. However, due to overwhelming demand and audience enthusiasm, tickets sold out quickly. The circus troupe decided to extend performances until March 23.
At 7:30 PM on February 14, reporters from Dân trí at the Gia Dinh Park Circus Theater (Go Vap District, HCMC) observed a bustling crowd waiting to enter the venue. Not only did the show attract families, but it also drew many Gen Z youths eager to watch.
runs nearly two hours, directed by Meritorious Artist Le Dien, with Nguyen Phi Son as artistic advisor, director Nguyen Quoc Cong, and performed by the Phương Nam Performing Arts Theater ensemble.
From the opening scene, the performance creates a tense atmosphere set in a village struck by an unexpected drought. From there, protagonists Tung and Mon embark on an adventure into a giant world to find the five legendary rain-summoning stones: Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth.
With a tight storyline and well-structured script, Mysterious Land captivates the audience. Acts representing each element are arranged thoughtfully, with moments of calm interspersed with thrilling climaxes, keeping the audience engaged and surprised.
Many viewers were amazed that modern circus performances focus heavily on storytelling rather than just showcasing acrobatic skills, as traditionally perceived.
The seamless coordination among the 24 artists is one of the key factors behind the success of Mysterious Land. Besides the main characters Tung and Mon, each performer plays a unique role, from human towers and balance acts to aerial stunts and choreographed dances, creating visually stunning scenes.
In an interview with Dân trí, director Nguyen Quoc Cong shared that the choreography and cast trained intensively for three months to master challenging techniques and explore innovative ideas.
According to Mr. Cong, the performers not only showcase technical skills but also combine acting, dance, and storytelling through body language. Some acts, like group rope stunts, ball juggling, and giant puppetry, left a strong impression on audiences due to their novelty and modernity.
Additionally, sound technology, lighting, stage design, and props are highlights of the circus. Throughout the two-hour show, continuous applause and cheers erupted from the audience, expressing awe and delight at the visually stunning production and grand visual effects.
Screenwriter Thuc Tram, author of Mysterious Land, shared that creative visuals, sound, and props for each element—Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth—are key differentiators that attract young audiences.
The Water act impresses with a giant Water Goddess character, the Fire act features a Fire King dancing with flames, the Metal act includes a beautiful laser stick dance, and the Wood act showcases a 6-meter-tall Rock God.
Storytelling through imagery, lighting, and music transforms the stage into a mystical and poetic world, creating unforgettable moments for both performers and spectators.
The cast delivered passionate performances, earning extra points with the audience. After the show, hundreds of children and their families rushed onto the stage to take photos and interact with the artists. Despite sweat dripping down their faces, the circus performers smiled radiantly, happy to be embraced by the audience.
“After the performance, I wondered if the audience was satisfied with our efforts. But at the end, people came down to greet us, take photos, and I knew they felt their money was well spent.
I don’t want people to think circus is just about animal tricks or sword swallowing like in the past. Modern circus can tell great stories and incorporate various art forms. I hope Mysterious Land is a new step forward, paving the way for fellow artists to promote contemporary circus to wider audiences,” said actress Tran Thi Thu, who plays Mon, in an interview with Dân trí.
Photos: Thuy Huong
