VietNamNet Bridge – Weighing 129 kilos, Ngo Thuy Tien thought it would be difficult to move on the dance floor, but she has developed a passion for the performing arts.

Chance to shine: Twelve finalists are taking part in Buoc Nhay Ngan Can, a Vietnamese version of the US TV reality dance show Dance Your Fat Off. — Photo courtesy of Dong Tay Promotion

"I love acting and dancing from my heart and hope to do them the rest of my life," said Tien, who studies acting at the Ha Noi College of Art.

The 20-year-old is popular on the internet, especially with teenagers.

With a lovely face and bright smile, Tien has been invited to join television programmes for teenagers, including the six-episode sitcom Di Qua Mua Nang (High School Students) and the feature film Dai Gia Chan Dat (Barefoot Rich Man), and music videos as well.

"I was teased about my body for a long time. But I ignored it and kept following my dream," she said.

Tien has taken part in Buoc Nhay Ngan Can, a Vietnamese version of the US TV reality dance show Dance Your Fat Off, produced by the Viet Nam Television (VTV) and Dong Tay Promotion.

The show aims to encourage people like Tien to develop a love for dancing.

"Through the show, I have a chance to show off my ability and talent," Tien said.

The competition in Viet Nam attracted hundreds of people in the preliminary rounds, which was held in Ha Noi and HCM City in the beginning of September.

Twelve contestants, six women and six men, have entered the final round.

Each finalist will pair with professional dancers and celebrities to show their best moves in disco, hip-hop, salsa, rumba and dance sports.

Candidates will be eliminated each week until the final three finalists who will compete in the grand finale in December.

The show has been broadcast every Sunday night on VTV 3.

Apart from learning to love dance, Tien and other finalists hope to lose several kilos during the show.

"Weight loss has been impossible for me," said Le Anh Nguyet, who weighs 97 kilos.

The 32-year-old housewife, who has a daughter, attended dance classes at a youth but felt uncomfortable when she began dancing again.

"Doing the moves, especially complicated ones like the twist, are thrilling," said Nguyet, who has spent 10 hours a day in practices and rehearsals.

"We still have a long road," Nguyet said.

Dancer Lam Vinh Hai, one of the partners for the contestants, said he admired their efforts to reach their goals, because he knows how difficult it is to master complex dance moves, even for professionals.

Nguyen Tung Chi, deputy head of the Progamme Production Department of VTV, said: "With their moves and efforts, participants in Dance Your Fat Off have left an inspiring and insightful message of health and beauty for other people."

VNS