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The Korean traditional operetta “Hwang Jini” will be performed from Nov. 26 to 29 at the Yeakdang hall of the National Center for Korean Traditional Performing Arts in southern Seoul.
/ Courtesy of the National Center for Korean Traditional Performing Arts |
By Chung Ah-young
Staff Reporter
Hwang Jini was one of the most famous "gisaeng," or female entertainers, and a renowned poet during the Joseon Kingdom (1392-1910).
Hwang went by her gisaeng name Myeongwol, which means "bright moon." Known for her beauty, wit and intelligence, she was a talented poet but only a handful of her poetry remains today.
Her personal life, which involved romances and friendships with some of the most powerful men of her day, has inspired many TV dramas, plays and films.
Now she will be reborn in a Korean traditional operetta presented by the National Center for Korean Traditional Performing Arts (NCKTPA).
The traditional show is based on folk songs that were popular in the Gyeonggi, Hwanghae and Pyeongan provinces.
The operetta encompasses the entire spectrum of Joseon culture, including court and literary music, folk music and dance, Buddhist dance, traditional plays, poems and calligraphy.
The story deals with the romantic relationships between Hwang and the men around her and also her pursuit for true freedom. After the death of a young man who secretly loved her, Hwang realizes the futility of life and sets forth for a new life free from restraints and ties to social hierarchy.
She is reborn as a gisaeng talented in poetry, calligraphy, pictures, song and dance.
The operetta consists of 13 poems ― including Hwang's works ― that are recreated as songs. Some 60 performers will take part in the show directed by Kim Hyo-kyeong and written by Kim Yong-beom. Actress Choi Su-jeong will play Hwang.
The show uses not only Korean traditional instruments but also Western stringed instruments, keyboards, gongs and wind chimes.
"Hwang Jini" will also feature various techniques and stage effects.
The performance will be held Nov. 26-29 at the Yeakdang hall of the NCKTPA. Tickets cost from 10,000 won to 30,000 won.
For more information, visit www.gugak.go.kr or call (02) 580-3300.
chungay@koreatimes.co.kr |
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