The production is based on a script by Doan Thanh Ai and playwright Van Trong Hung, with direction and enhanced staging by People’s Artist Nguyen Hoai Hue. The latest version builds on the original 1994 production, which was revived in 2017, and incorporates further artistic refinements.
The opera tells the story of Princess Huyen Tran of the Tran dynasty, a historical figure regarded as a symbol of peace. The narrative focuses on her decision to sacrifice her personal happiness and marry Champa King Che Man in the interests of the nation, helping foster peaceful relations between Dai Viet and Champa and contributing to stability in the southern region.
In addition to portraying her sacrifice, the production depicts political intrigue within the Champa royal court, the schemes of disloyal courtiers, and Huyen Tran’s struggle to overcome longstanding customs following King Che Man’s death in order to return to Dai Viet. Despite her return, the opera portrays the princess as maintaining deep concern for both the Vietnamese and Cham peoples.
According to the production team, the enhanced 2026 staging brings together a cast of experienced young performers. Meritorious Artist Duong Nu Thuy Dung, head of the Binh Dinh Bai Choi Opera Troupe, plays the title role, alongside Meritorious Artist Phuong Phu as Che Man, Thanh Viet as Tran Khac Chung and Xuan Hoang as Tran Nhan Tong.
The rehearsal was held to evaluate the production’s artistic quality before its official tour and to support efforts to preserve and promote traditional arts while conveying messages of peace, friendship and selfless devotion associated with Princess Huyen Tran.