Wishing to evoke memories of the hardships during the subsidy period, artists from the Youth Theatre will stage a special musical about daily life in Hanoi in the 1980s and its dwellers.

Under Vietnam's subsidy regime (1976-1986), goods were distributed according to a coupon system; there was no free trade in the market and no free movement of goods from one locality to another.

The artists who star in the musical show "Street Stories during the Subsidy Period". Photo: Ly Chi Huy

Directed and choreographed by Meritorious Artist Le Anh Tuyet, the play recalls the audience's memories of past deprivations, allowing them to appreciate what they have today.

The musical "Street Stories during the Subsidy Period" tells the story of a family of four generations living in Hanoi's Old Quarter. The family's joys, sorrows, conflicts, and even private happiness epitomize the life of people in Hanoi at that time.

Each member of the family has different personalities, occupations, and interests, and they live together under one narrow roof. Many conflicts or humorous situations arose from this. In the end, these little conflicts in life are healed by music. The love of music unites people, resolves conflicts, and erases all existing boundaries. Immersed in music with passionate dances, people realize that life is always beautiful, no matter what happens.

The program features a cast of renowned artists such as Duc Long, Anh Tuyet, Ton Son, Tuan Nghia and others.

The musical soundtrack consists of Hanoi-themed songs and international musical works, including Hoa Sua or Blackboard Flower by Hong Dang, Nho Mua Thu Ha Noi or Remember Hanoi Autumn by Trinh Cong Son, River Babylon by German vocal group Boney M, and others.

The stage of the musical play. Photo: Dong Thanh Nhan