In early February, Giang Quoc Co and his younger brotherGiang Quoc Nghiep set a new world record by performing a head-to-head balancingact blindfolded in Milan, Italy.
Theywalked a 40cm-wide and 10m-long surface and climbed up and down 10 steps in 1minute and 55 seconds. That has made the duo the only in Vietnamto hold four world records.
Earlier, the two hadbeen assisted by the Ho Chi Minh City circus troupe, now the Phuong Nam ArtsTheatre, to take part in many international competitions in such countriesas China, Italy, and Cuba and continually won prizes, according to the Tuoi tre(Youth) newspaper.
They said those eventswere wonderful chances for them to learn experience from international artists,realise their weaknesses to improve their skills, and impress major circustroupes in the world.
As a result, thebrothers have been invited to perform in many countries like the US, Spain, andGermany.
Nghiep said that tograb global attention, it is necessary to make a difference and create uniqueness.To do that, the first factor is talent with unique acts that are like no other,and another is to bring into play traditional culture as seen in theirspecially designed “ao dai” – a traditional costume of Vietnam.
Meritorious ArtistBich Lien, Deputy Director of the Phuong Nam Arts Theatre, said Co and Nghiephave made enormous efforts to shine, adding that they have been workingindustriously, passionately, and creatively while popularising their imageswell to leave impression in Vietnam and the world.
Aside from the pair,other artists have also been applying themselves to the circus and gainedachievements.
Late last year, theVietnam Circus Federation won two awards at competitions in Russia.
Notably, there wereonly two gold prizes at the contest, and the other belonged to a Russianartist.
Meanwhile, Chu KhanhHuyen reaped a bronze award at the “Without Borders” international circusfestival. The event drew the participation of more than 120 artists from 15countries and featured two gold prizes, three silvers, and four bronzes.
TongToan Thang, Director of the Vietnam Circus Federation, said artists have kept training evenamid the COVID-19 pandemic to sustain their performance.
He heldthat Vietnamese artists can gain more international prizes if they receive moreinvestment, expressing his hope for stronger assistance from state agencies sothat artists can take part in international festivals and competitions./.