New Look Unveiled for VND 1.4 Trillion Multi-Purpose Circus and Performance Center

HCMC – After more than two years of construction, the Phu Tho Multi-purpose Circus and Performance Center is now nearly complete and is expected to be inaugurated at the end of August.

Located on Lu Gia Street, next to the Phu Tho Stadium and racetrack in Phu Tho Ward, the project has a total investment of nearly VND 1.4 trillion. It is developed by the HCMC Management Board of Civil and Industrial Construction Projects.

Once operational, the venue will serve as a hub for circus performances, the preservation and development of circus and puppetry arts. It will also function as a center for training, education, and interdisciplinary collaboration with other art forms, as well as hosting conferences and gatherings.

The Phu Tho Multi-purpose Circus and Performance Center is designed in a cylindrical shape, covering a land area of approximately 10,000 square meters. The structure consists of two underground levels and 12 above-ground floors, reaching a height of 57.5 meters, with a total usable floor area of over 31,000 square meters.

The main auditorium, with a capacity of 2,000 seats, features a mobile circular stage and a rectangular stage. These two are interconnected to form a multi-purpose performance space equipped with a spiral lifting system, allowing movement in water or on dry surfaces to accommodate various types of shows.

Mr. Chu Viet Han, Chief Commander at Construction Corporation No. 1 (CC1), stated that the major components of the auditorium have been completed. Contractors are currently focusing on installing sound and lighting systems, cleaning, and preparing for trial operations.

CC1 is responsible for key construction elements such as the building structure; air conditioning and ventilation systems; sound and lighting equipment; stage and performance technologies.

At the center of the circular stage is a semi-circular pool equipped with a spiral lift system and underwater lifting devices. The pool is approximately 22 meters long and 5 meters deep, designed to host performances such as traditional water puppetry. When needed, it can be elevated to accommodate other types of artistic activities. Behind it is a movable rectangular stage used for performances and scene transitions.

The surface of the stage is specially constructed to support various forms of performing arts, including classical acts, animal circus shows, and figure skating. Workers are currently busy cleaning and installing lighting and sound systems to ensure everything is ready for the grand opening (see photo).

The ceiling of the auditorium stands about 24 meters high and is equipped with modern lighting technology to create impressive visual effects, enhancing the overall performance experience.

The seating in the auditorium has been fully installed and is divided into multiple sections based on ticket pricing.

On the 8th floor, there is a training and performance area featuring a 300-seat auditorium, equipped with various modern apparatuses such as aerial silks, double trapeze, triple trapeze, aerial straps, and tumbling equipment. This floor also includes flexible-use rooms and dedicated spaces for both ground-based and aerial exercises.

The 6th floor houses equipment that supports the stage technology systems. According to the contractor, this is a critical area with a distinct design compared to other floors to ensure the stage operates accurately during artistic performances.

Hallways, corridors between functional rooms, and staircases are designed with vibrant color schemes. Directional signs, emergency exits, and the fire protection system have all been installed.

The dining area on the 11th floor, designated for staff, employees, and performers, has been built to be spacious and well-equipped. Other floors, featuring various functions such as meeting rooms, dressing rooms, backstage areas, storage, props, and rest spaces for performers, have been completed and are awaiting interior installation.

In addition to housing technical equipment for building operations, the rooftop is also designed to accommodate a restaurant and other service facilities.

The outdoor area features landscaped greenery, a water fountain, and seating spaces. This zone also includes technical rooms, ticket counters, medical facilities, a kitchen, storage areas, and a press center.

Behind the landscaped grounds is an animal training area (see photo), designed to support circus performances. This section consists of one above-ground floor with a total floor area of over 1,000 square meters, housing animal enclosures, training zones, warm-up areas, and backstage holding spaces.

The Phu Tho Multi-purpose Circus and Performance Center is designed for a lifespan of 100 years. Once completed, it will be a world-class facility equipped with modern technologies, meeting international standards for large-scale performing arts.

Location of the Phu Tho Multi-purpose Circus and Performance Center. Graphic: Khanh Hoang

Quynh Tran – Gia Minh

Source: VNExpress