By Chung Ah-young
Staff Reporter
Movie star and talented musical actor Hwang Jung-min will return to the stage next year, four years after his last musical, ``42nd Street.''
He is a household name on the big screen with successful performances in ``You Are My Sunshine,'' (2005) ``Psychopath,'' (2007) and ``Happiness'' (2007).
But the award-winning performer first began his acting career as a musical actor in ``Line 1'' (1995) and then starred in various musicals such as ``Jesus Christ Superstar'' and ``Cats.''
``I am very excited (to come back to the musical.) With `Nine' as my comeback piece, I will do my best,'' he said in a press release.
Based on an Italian play by Mario Fratti inspired by Federico Fellini's autobiographical film ``8½,'' it focuses on the film director Guido Contini, which will be played by Hwang.
The musical deals with the famous director's approaching fortieth birthday, which thrusts him into an emotional tailspin that threatens to destroy his personal and professional life.
The role of Guido Contini is the only male cast member among 18 women.
With Hollywood star Antonio Banderas, as well as a number of other key players, performing in 2003's Broadway revival of ``Nine'', much of its reputation can attributed to Banderas, whose acting and singing talent along with his good looks made for an ideal Guido Contini.
Now the Korean production is placing much expectation on Hwang, who shines in films with his captivating acting.
Starring in various musicals and plays in Daehangno, Hwang's debut film was ``The Waikiki Brothers,'' in 2001. Then he appeared in prominent films like ``A Good Lawyer's Wife,'' ``You're My Sunshine,'' and ``Bloody Tie,'' in which he portrayed many diverse characters.
The Korean production will be directed by veteran director David Swan who worked in several Korean hit productions such as ``Man of La Mancha'' and ``All Shook Up.''
``Nine'' premiered in 1982 on Broadway and was nominated in 10 sections of Tony Awards and won five awards, including the best revival award.
The musical will be staged at LG Arts Center in southern Seoul on Jan. 22 and will run until March 2 next year.
Tickets cost from 30,000 won to 120,000 won. For more information, call 1588-5212.