At Hoai Nhon Ward Square and Bong Son Ward Square, crowds have gathered to watch the Binh Minh Hoai Nhon Lion and Dragon Dance Troupe, the first and oldest group in the area to perform the Mai Hoa Thung routine. The act challenges dancers to balance atop towering iron poles while executing strong yet graceful movements.
Head of the troupe, Phan Huu Cuong, said members began rehearsing early this year to deliver their best festival performance. “Recently, our members have been self-learning, researching techniques, and practicing together. Every year, we welcome feedback and choreograph new acts to make the show more engaging and diverse,” he said.
At the 3rd Vo Quy Nhon - Binh Dinh Lion, Unicorn, and Dragon Dance Festival 2024, the Mieu Bay Ba Troupe from An Giang impressed spectators with a flawless routine. Team member Tran The Vu revealed that the athletes had trained for months, mastering precise coordination to safely shift and turn atop the poles.
The Mai Hoa Thung technique demands absolute precision in every leap, turn, and toss, as performers move across poles of varying heights and distances. Many teams spend years perfecting timing and coordination before competing.
In past competitions, the Ky Hoan Lion and Dragon Dance Club gained recognition for its athletes’ bold and creative performances. Dancers like Nguyen Trong Nghia and Do Thai Dinh energized the stage with their “beast dance” style, while Nguyen Huu Thinh and Vo Dong Long were celebrated for their strength and speed. Performers Nguyen Tran Thai Anh and Ho Lam Thuan stood out for technical finesse and endurance on the poles.
According to Ho Lam Thuan, now Deputy Head of Ky Hoan Club, the act requires flawless coordination between the lion’s head and tail performers. “Even a minor technical error can lead to a fall or injury,” he said. “The two athletes must train together for a long time and follow the coach’s instructions closely to ensure both artistry and safety.”
Performing the Mai Hoa Thung act costs troupes significant effort and time, as each iron pole system can cost several million Vietnamese dong (around USD 80–120), underscoring the dedication behind this centuries-old art form.
