The stage keeper in everyday life

Ms. Hoang Thi Hai participated in a play at the radio studio of Dong Nai Newspaper and Radio and Television.

With over 35 years of military service, veteran Hoang Thi Hai, who held the rank of major, lived a life of discipline and determination, but her heart always beat to the rhythm of art, of gentleness and delicacy. She is a soldier who never puts aside her passion, an artist who never steps down from the stage of life.

Passion for art

Born in 1957, Ms. Hoang Thi Hai served in the army for 35 years, stationed at Long Binh General Depot, Dong Nai province. Ms. Hai said that during her time in the army, she loved the arts. Knowing music theory and choreography, she volunteered to participate in the army-wide performance whenever she had the chance. Not only because she loved it, but because she felt that in each melody, in each dance, there was a part of her that was truly alive, breathing deeply with her own heart.

Ms. Hoang Thi Hai (middle) participates in an art performance. Photo: Hien Luong

Retiring in 2007, she did not rest but started another journey, a journey with the spotlight. She joined the Long Binh Ward Arts Club. Without a fixed headquarters, without adequate equipment, only passion and enthusiasm, she still participated in the Club for the past 18 years. Later, the Anh Duong Club in Long Binh Ward was established, she was also invited to join the Board of Directors as a choreographer.

For her, each performance practice is not simply about practicing many songs or some beautiful dances, but also an opportunity to meet, share and give each other positive energy. Even though there are days when her legs are tired and her voice is hoarse, she still feels light-hearted.

"If I'm happy, people around me will be happy too. An optimistic spirit will make me healthy" - Ms. Hai shared.

For Ms. Hoang Thi Hai, a member of the Long Binh Ward Arts Club, art is not for show. It is a way for people to live better, understand each other better and preserve traditional values that are gradually fading in modern life.

Live healthy, live happy, live joyfully

Currently, the Long Binh Ward Arts Club has 10 members who regularly practice. From folk dance, Cheo singing, Quan Ho singing, to skits and activities, all have her direction and choreography. She not only teaches dancing but also teaches how to stand on stage and express emotions. Therefore, the amateur actors in the Club feel more confident every time they perform because of Ms. Hai's dedicated guidance. The Club has won many awards at festivals and performances.

Ms. Hoang Thi Hai is also the soul of each performance. From ideas, music selection, script writing, choreography, stage setting, she takes care of all the big and small tasks. She has staged hundreds of performances, from short skits, folk dances, to performances praising the homeland and country. All bear the strong mark of an artist who has lived and devoted herself with all her heart. For her, performing arts is not only a hobby but also a way for her to live healthily, happily, and joyfully. Even if she is tired and worries about housework, once she steps on stage, all her fatigue disappears.

Without the need for professional stage spotlight, salary or fancy title, Ms. Hoang Thi Hai still quietly devotes herself every day with pure passion and a heart that never tires. Every day that passes, the small stage in the neighborhood cultural house is still lit. And in that light, there is a woman who regularly transmits the fire, the rhythm and the love of life to many generations.

Mr. Dam Van Nhuong, Head of Ward 31, Long Binh Ward, Dong Nai Province commented: “Ms. Hai is one of the typical core members of the art movement in the neighborhood. She is enthusiastic, responsible and talented, and very sociable, so the elderly here really like her. Whenever there are activities of the ward or neighborhood, she is always the first to participate, contributing to creating a lively atmosphere, connecting everyone.”

In the midst of the changing pace of modern life, there are values that seem small but become extremely precious. Like the way Mrs. Hai preserves the soul of national culture through each Cheo tune and Quan Ho verse. Like the way she builds a stage for the community so that people can sing, dance, and be themselves. And so, her artistic journey, though not as brilliant as fireworks, is durable enough to warm a sky of memories, sincere enough to touch the hearts of those who have listened, watched, and smiled with emotion.

Hien Luong

Source: https://baodongnai.com.vn/van-hoa/202510/nguoi-giu-lua-san-khau-giua-doi-thuong-99a26df/