Stage performance of “12” by Director Tsuyoshi Sugiyama – Opening of the drama practice series The Moving Lab
On the four nights of August 9, 10, 16 and 17, 2025, TPD Center for Supporting the Development of Cinema Talents introduced the stage performance of “12”, a dramatic and psychologically profound stage work directed by Japanese director Tsuyoshi Sugiyama, opening the series of drama practice The Moving Lab: The lighted performance room.
Stage performance of “12” by Director Tsuyoshi Sugiyama. Photo: Organization board
“12” is adapted from Reginald Rose’s classic play Twelve Angry Men, directed by Tsuyoshi Sugiyama and the TPD team. The play places the audience in a closed deliberation room, where twelve members of the jury fiercely debate the guilt of a teenager. On the minimalist stage, the conflict between reason and emotion, between prejudice and understanding is pushed to a climax, turning each character into a “mirror” reflecting society in miniature.
According to the creative team, “12” is not just a performance but also an experimental artistic experience, inviting the audience to participate in the process of reflecting the truth from many perspectives. The play features students of the TPD advanced acting class with support from the Japan Foundation.
Scene from the stage performance “12”. Photo: TPD
Director Tsuyoshi Sugiyama said: The play was created to reflect global issues such as discrimination, prejudice and alienation in the community… He emphasized that the message of empathy and harmonious coexistence is especially suitable for the current social context of Vietnam. Sugiyama considered this an opportunity for young actors of TPD to challenge themselves through a two-hour work, thereby accumulating experience, practicing skills and maturing in the profession.
Director Tsuyoshi Sugiyama at the presentation. Photo: TPD
Director Tsuyoshi Sugiyama is a talented Japanese stage artist, known for his unique staging style, combining the interpretation of classic plays with a modern and experimental perspective. He began his professional stage career in 1995, and taught at the French National Academy of Dramatic Arts in Paris. He currently works mainly in Hanoi and Tokyo, making his mark with many plays such as:Mr. Vanya, Albatross, Hedda Gabler, The Soul of Truong Ba – The Butcher’s Skin…as well as bringing Theatre Centre Without Walls’ productions internationally and training young actors through intensive courses.
The show brings together a large creative team, including art advisors, stage designers, sound and lighting technicians, costume and media teams. “12” is not only a stage production but also the result of training and artistic experimentation that TPD aims for, creating a space for young artists to learn and rub against international standards.
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