People's Artist Thanh Tong, 68, one of the southern region's most talented cai luong artists, passed away at his home from illness in Ho Chi Minh City on September 22.
The veteran traditional performer whose real name is Nguyen Thanh Tong was born in a renowned traditional cai luong family. His father is famous artist Minh To, and his grandpa is Bau Thang-head of the Minh To cai luong troupe.
He was introduced to cai luong at 3 years of age. He was regarded as a child prodigy of cai luong when he was 11.
Thanh Tong was honored with the title “People’s Artist” in 2007.
He won many prizes during his career, such as four golden medals and 6 silver medals at the National Stage Festival, three Mai Vang awards.
He will be buried at Go Den Cemetery in Ben Luc District’s Long An Province on September 24.
