On the morning of August 19, leaders in Ho Chi Minh City officially inaugurated the Phu Tho Circus and Multipurpose Performance Center in Phu Tho Ward, marking a major milestone in the city’s investment in modern cultural infrastructure.

Located on Lu Gia Street in Phu Tho Ward, the venue is a new cultural landmark for Ho Chi Minh City. The project was overseen by the Management Board for Civil and Industrial Construction Projects and broke ground in April 2023, with a total investment of 1.395 trillion VND (approximately $55 million).

Covering an area of 10,000 square meters, the facility comprises two basement levels and 12 floors above ground, offering nearly 29,500 square meters of floor space with a total height of 57.5 meters.

The centerpiece is a four-story, 2,000-seat main auditorium equipped with advanced audio-visual and mechanical systems, supporting complex stage productions. Additional features include a 300-seat rehearsal hall, an exhibition and conference zone, a large-capacity kitchen and dining area, and a multi-purpose rooftop.

After completion, the center will be managed and operated by the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Culture and Sports in coordination with the City Art Center. Its operation model will integrate various art forms, including circus acts, puppetry, multimedia shows, musicals, concerts, festivals, conferences, and exhibitions. It will also support MICE services, educational experiences, and community events.

Speaking at the inauguration, Tran Thi Dieu Thuy, Vice Chairwoman of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee, emphasized that the facility is not only a venue for artistic performances but also a hub for artist training, cultural exchange, and international collaboration. It will serve as a new destination for both local audiences and tourists.

To ensure the project's full potential, city leaders directed the Department of Culture and Sports to quickly finalize operational plans, develop a strategy to attract audiences, and implement a suitable management model to prevent resource waste.

According to Vo Duc Thanh, Director of the Management Board for Civil and Industrial Projects, the entire facility was built to international technological standards and can accommodate large-scale performances.

A key technical highlight is the 52-meter wide-span floor system across levels 6, 7, and 8, requiring advanced construction solutions to ensure maximum structural safety for high-load performances. The venue also includes a world-class traffic circulation, fire safety, and emergency evacuation system to guarantee a safe and seamless experience for performers and guests.

Following the ribbon-cutting, all systems will undergo trial operations before officially hosting performances by the end of the year.

PV