The National Professional Cai Luong (reformed theatre) Festival 2012 featuring 22 stage troupes from across the country, opened in Bien Hoa city, Dong Nai province, on October 20.
The artists will perform 26 new pieces that have been composed since 2009, focusing on issues in contemporary life.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Vuong Duy Bien said the event provides an opportunity for Cai Luong artists to exchange experiences and be inspired to create more high quality works for the public.
The festival also honours individuals and collectives that have made positive contributions to the development of the art form, he added.
The event, held jointly by the Department of Performing Arts, the Vietnam Association of Stage Artists and the Dong Nai provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, will conclude with an awards ceremony on November 4.
The stage troupes will then travel to give performances in Long Khanh town, Bien Hoa city and other districts of the city.