Mai Duyen – “Acting is how I live many different lives”
At 25, having graduated from the University of Theatre and Cinema, Mai Duyen is one of the emerging young talents steadily leaving a mark on both stage and screen. With her gentle demeanor, bright smile, and expressive eyes, she easily captures hearts. But behind that soft exterior lies a quiet strength – that of a young artist deeply passionate about her craft and constantly striving to grow with each performance.
Reflecting on her journey into acting, Mai Duyen shares, “It all started with the emotional moments I experienced while watching films and plays. The more I watched, the more I was drawn in by the emotions, the depth of the characters. One day, I realized – I didn’t just want to watch. I wanted to live in that world. Acting felt like where I truly belonged.”
Stepping into the industry with little experience and many uncertainties, she chose not to shy away from the challenges. “Difficulties are unavoidable, but what keeps me going is the fire inside. As long as that fire still burns, I’ll keep moving forward,” she says with quiet conviction.
For Mai Duyen, acting isn’t just a profession – it’s a journey of self-exploration through the lives of her characters. “Each role is its own universe, a chance to challenge myself, to learn, and to grow. I find joy in every role – whether big or small – because each has its own meaning.”
When approaching a new character, her first step is always to understand them on a deep level: “I need to know who they are, how they’ve lived, what they’re thinking and feeling. Reading the script is just the beginning. What matters most is to live with the character, to connect with them emotionally, and let that guide me.”
She pays close attention to body language, facial expressions, and voice – the subtle details that make a performance authentic. “Acting isn’t just in the lines. It’s in the eyes, the way you walk, your gestures… I always ask myself: “If I were this character, what would I do in their situation?”
Recently, Mai Duyen appeared as Little Cat in the Garden of Music show – a playful and endearing character, rich in emotional depth. “Little Cat may seem small and innocent, but the role was far from simple. It pushed me to be more expressive physically, to stay nimble while conveying real emotions. It was truly a memorable experience.”
Looking ahead, Mai Duyen hopes to explore a diverse range of roles – from protagonists to antagonists, from comedic to psychologically complex characters. “I don’t want to be typecast. Acting is a vast world, and I want to journey far within it. I hope to contribute to works that are meaningful, that have depth and can truly touch the audience’s hearts.”
In Mai Duyen, we see a rare blend of pure passion, humility, and unrelenting dedication. A young artist who is quietly – yet confidently – writing her own story in the world of performance, with her whole heart.
Writer: Hai Nhu Tran
