Artists reluctant over work permits

Singer My Tam

The issue about work permits for artists was raised in the nineties but was ignored until recently. Leaders from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism emphasised that it is necessary to apply work permit rules to singers and models in the country to prevent possible wrongdoings in the sector, including lip-syncing, improper behaviour and scanty clothing.

Singer My Tam is against the regulations because, as she says, the job of an artist is different than others, as it has more to do with expression of emotion. She added that, while work permits may be able to control the quantity of work, they cannot affect the quality and so will be unable to prevent showbiz 'disasters'.

"I don't really understand this regulation. It's not necessary or feasible to carry out. We should grant certificates to hard-working artists and titles such as the Golden Raspberry Awards for bad behaviour. The government should issue more detailed performing laws or the entertainment industry won't be able to grow and nurture new talent. I think public scorn is their biggest punishment." she said.

Young singer Van Mai Huong also expressed her doubts with the regulation. "Having a permit doesn't mean that one is a true artist. Work permits can protect an artist's rights but we must really understand the nature of the industry in order to realise this goal."

Van Mai Huong

Model and actress Truong Ngoc Anh agreed that they need a thorough legal framework or it would cause great troubles to freelance artists who have not studied at art schools.

Meanwhile, Thanh Long, Director of PL Model and Management Company, said he supports the regulation as a manager. "We feel proud of our work and a permit only adds to this. It would also be easier for authourities to supervise and collect taxes. Even freelance models can ask for permits on their own or join modeling agencies."

However, My Uyen, who worked as director of 5B Theatre, said, "When news about the regulation started in 1997, I didn't know where I should go to ask for the permit. I was so worried that I would be banned from working. Work permits are a good idea but it needs to be more precise in terms of what agency is responsible for granting the permits, the requirements, the procedures, especially criteria for freelance artists who haven't studied at art schools."