Singers free during World Cup season

Thursday, June 24, 2010 (GMT+7)

Cultural and entertainment activities in HCM City have idled since the World Cup 2010 began in early June.

Around 60 percent of singers have reportedly gone abroad for concerts or on vacation. They explain that music shows have small audiences because of the World Cup and the recent economic crisis.

Stages and night clubs in the city don’t have any big show on line for this month. Famous night clubs like Khong Ten, Dong Dao, WE and Tieng Xua only have weekend shows. Pop star Dam Vinh Hung, said to be the most popular singer, held only one show to introduce his new album at HCM City Theatre on June 15.

Many singers who have finished new albums – Duc Tuan, Thao Trang, Thu Minh, Doan Trang and Dong Nhi – have postponed their launches until after the World Cup closes.

The HCM City Drama Theatre has temporarily stopped organizing shows. Director Hoang Duan noted that the theatre is practicing for some new dramas to begin in the post-World Cup period.

At Hoang Thai Thanh drama stage, Director Ai Nhu admitted: “The World Cup is the wave of kings and it sweeps away all entertainment.”

Director of 5B Stage, Huynh Minh Nhi, confirmed that ticket sales have falled by half since the World Cup began.

Hong Van, the owner of three stages - Phu Nhuan, Kim Chau and SuperBowl – only maintains shows at Kim Chau and SuperBowl during the weekends, while introducing her best dramas at Phu Nhuan.

 

Source: VNN