Classical Concerts, Big Tickets, Dance, Pop and Jazz
Classical Concerts
White Christmas with Kim Nam-yun &150 Violinists
Seoul Arts Center
Dec. 23
Violinist Kim Nam-yun and her 150 students deliver Christmas carols, pop songs and theatrical scores including Ennio Morricone's ``Gabriel's Oboes.'' Spend a romantic evening with their violin tunes. Tickets cost from 20,000 won to 80,000 won. For more information, call (02) 580-1300. Located near exits 4 and 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal on subway line 3.
Beethoven Virus Live
Sejong Center for the Performing Arts
Jan. 11
Conductor Seo Hee-tae is performing ``Beethoven Virus in Live,'' based on the hit TV drama ``Beethoven Virus.'' World-renowned pianist Seo Hye-kyung and mezzo-soprano Lee A-kyung join as special guests. Tickets range from 33,000 won to 77,000 won. For more information, call 02-548-8690. Located near exit 3 of City Hall Station on subway line 1 and 2, or exit 1 and 8 of Gwanghwamun Station on subway line 5.
Opera `Le Nozze di Figaro'
Art Theater, Korea National University of Arts
Dec. 25- 30
The National Opera of Korea has prepared Mozart's ``Le Nozze di Figaro.'' This is the first of the ``University Tour Opera Series.'' Tickets cost from 30,000 won to 90,000 won. For more information, call 1544-1555. Located near exits 1 of Sinimun on subway line 1.
New Year's Eve Concert 2008
Dec. 31
The Gangnam Symphony Orchestra, led by Laurent Petitgirard, will perform New Year's Eve Concert 2008. Join pianist Lee Yong-gyu, cellist Yang Sung-won and popera singer Rose Jang and listen to their beautiful harmony. Tickets cost from 40,000 won to 70,000 won. For more information, call (02) 580-1300. Located near exits 4 and 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal on subway line 3.
Gustavo Dudamel & Simon Bolivar Youth Orchestra of Venezuela
Dec. 14
Conductor Gustavo Dudamel will make his debut in Korea, leading one of Venezuela's best orchestras the Simon Bolivar Youth Orchestra of Venezuela. The 27-year-old will take the helm of the Los Angeles Philharmonic next fall, and before he starts his incredible journey, he visits Korea as part of his world tour. Tickets cost from 40,000 won to 160,000 won. For more information, visit www.credia.co.kr or call (02) 751-9606. Located near exits 4 and 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal on subway line 3.
Lim Hyung-joo Christmas Recital
Dec. 30
Popera tenor Lim Hyung-joo hosts this special Christmas recital. With the Korean Post Chamber Orchestra, Lim will present both spiritual songs as well as his new songs. Tickets cost from 50,000 won to 130,000 won. For more information, visit ticket.interpark.com or call 1544-1887. Located near exit 3 of City Hall Station on subway line 1 and 2, or exit 1 and 8 of Gwanghwamun Station on subway line 5.
Yiruma Grand Tour Concert `Ribbonized'
Dec. 28
New Age pianist Yiruma hosts this grand tour concert after returning from military service. The program includes rearranged numbers and an ensemble. Tickets cost from 55,000 won to 88,000 won. For more information, visit www.stompmusic.com or call (02) 2658-3546. Located near exits 4 and 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal on subway line 3.
Hello Mr. Dulcamara
YE-Hall Apgujeong
Through Dec. 25
The opera ``L' Elisir d'Amore'' is adapted to modern Apgujeong, one of Seoul's most trendy neighborhoods. It distinguishes itself from many other existing remakes, especially by focusing on Dulcamara, a traveling quack. It also adopts pantomime and graphic techniques. Tickets cost 25,000 won. For more information, visit yehall.com or call (02) 541-8367, 8380. Located near exit 2 of Apgujeong Station on subway line 3.
Big Tickets
Placido Domingo Recital
Gymnastic Stadium, Olympic Park
Jan. 13
World-renowned tenor Placido Domingo will bring some of his favorite songs, including numbers from operas, musicals and even Korean traditional songs. Tickets cost from 120,000 won to 250,000 won. For more information, visit ticket.interpark.com or call (02) 751-9606-10. Located near exits 4 and 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal on subway line 3.
Ne-Yo Concert
Olympic Hall, Olympic Park
American pop and R&B singer Ne-Yo is coming back to Korea. The singer included Korea in his tour after the warm and passionate welcome he received during his performance back in April this year. This will be another great chance to watch the 31-year-old perform with his dancers and backup singers. Tickets cost from 77,000 won to 110,000 won. For more information, visit www.interpark.com or call 1544-1555. Located near exit 3 of Olympic Park Station in subway line 5.
Insooni Christmas Dinner Show
Grand Hyatt Seoul Hotel
Dec. 19
Songstress Insooni is offering a special dinner show for the yuletide season. Watch the charismatic singer sing some of her favorites songs, along with delightful carols. Tickets cost from 198,000 won to 220,000 won. For more information, visit ticket.interpark.com. Located near exit 1 of Anam Station on subway line 6.
Lang Lang Piano Recital
Dec. 22
Chinese pianist Lang Lang, who performed at the Grammy Awards with Herbert Jeffrey Hancock, and also at the Beijing Olympic Games, will perform for Korean fans once again. The program includes traditional repertoires such as those of Mozart and Schumann, and Chinese traditional collections. Tickets cost from 40,000 won to 100,000 won. For more information, visit ticket.interpark.com or call (02) 541-3150. Located near exits 4 and 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal on subway line 3.
Alegria
Jamsil Sports Complex
Open run
Canadian circus group Cirque du Soleil is staging Alegria to Korean fans. Meaning ``joy'' in Spanish, Alegria is a more upbeat show than the troupe's previous performance, ``Quidam.'' For more information, visit www.cirquedusoleil.co.kr or call (02) 541-3150. Located near exits 6 and 7 of Sports Complex Station on subway line 2.
Museums
Alive Gallery
Sports Complex
Enjoy some of the best-known frescos, paintings and sculptures at Alive Gallery. The gallery offers a memorable experience in which pieces move and describe themselves as if they were alive. Tickets cost 17,000 won. Located near exits 6 and 8 of Sports Complex Station on subway line 2.
Dance
`Nutcracker' by Korea National Ballet
Goyang Aram Nuri Theater
Dec. 19-24
The Korea National Ballet brings Yury Grigorovich's version of Tchaikovsky's ``Nutcracker.'' In addition to dynamic dance moves, the Prime Philharmonic Orchestra will provide harmonic tunes, and the original crew from Russia will present a Bolshoi-like stage setting. Tickets cost from 10,000 won to 60,000 won. For more information, visit ticket.interpark.com or call 1577-7766. Located near exit Aramnuri of Jeongbalsan Station on subway line 3.
`Sachoom'
Sachoom Theater
Open Run
``Sachoom'' is a Korean abbreviation of ``Dance When You Are in Love.'' Experience various dance moves, ranging from hip-hop and modern to traditional. Tickets cost from 25,000 won to 50,000 won. For more information, visit www.lovedance.co.kr or call (02) 3676-7617. Located near exit 5 of Anguk Station on subway line 3.
Ballerina Who Loved a B-Boy
B-Boy Theater, Hongik University
With a reenergized cast and storyline, this entertaining story of a ballerina who falls hopelessly in love with the world of hip-hop is now on stage near Hong-ik University. Tickets cost from 30,000 won to 50,000 won. For more information, visit www.sjbboyz.com or call (02) 323-5233.
Break Out
Break Out Theater
Having drawn attention at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe last year, Break Out features B-boy performances along with comedy. Tickets cost from 40,000 won to 50,000 won. For more information, visit www.breakout.co.kr or call (02) 722-3995. Located near exit 15 of Jongno 3-ga Station on subway lines 1, 3 and 5.
Pop and Jazz
Lee Seung-chul Christmas concert `Crazy Night'
Jamsil Indoor Stadium
Dec. 24-27
Korean pop star Lee Seung-chul will hold a ``Crazy Night'' concert for Christmas Season. The concert will feature his best songs, including those appearing on soundtracks of famous dramas such as ``The Phoenix'' and carols with a rock 'n' roll twist. Tickets cost from 55,000 won to 120,000 won. For more information, visit www.interpark.com or call 1588-4992.
The Soul Concert
Dec. 20-24
Korea's top R&B singers, Whee Sung, Gummy, Park Hyo-shin and Jung Yeop will hold a joint concert titled ``The Soul Concert.'' The four talented singers will present colorful stages and groovy tunes. Tickets cost from 44,000 won to 110,000 won. For more information, visit www.interpark.com or call (02) 3446-3225. Located near exit 3 of Olympic Park Station in subway line 5.
Lena Park and Alex's Sweet December Concert
Fencing Stadium, Olympic Park
Dec. 30-31
R&B singers Lena Park and Alex are holding a concert titled ``Sweet December.'' The two will become ``love messengers'' by offering a romantic evening full of beautiful love songs. Tickets cost from 40,000 won to 99,000 won. For more information, visit www.interpark.com or call 1544-1555. Located near exit 3 of Olympic Park Station in subway line 5.
Merry Jazzy Christmas with Prelude
Dec. 21
Prelude is Korea's leading jazz quintet, composed of Ko Hee-an, Charles Lee, Choi Jin-bae, Richard Rho and Abraham Lagrimas Jr. All graduates of Berklee College of Music, they will present amazing jazz melodies. The group recently remade the famous song ``Falling Slowly,'' from the movie ``Once,'' for their new Christmas album. Tickets cost from 33,000 won to 55,000 won. For more information, visit ticket.interpark.com or call (02) 3991-700. Located near exit 3 of City Hall Station on subway line 1 and 2, or exit 1 and 8 of Gwanghwamun Station on subway line 5.
To 2009 ... From 2008 Hwayobi
Peace Hall, Kyung Hee University
Dec. 27
Korean R&B singer Hwayobi is to bid farewell to 2008 and welcome the New Year. Her concert will be a good chance to listen to songs from her first album to her latest. Tickets cost from 55,000 won to 77,000 won. For more information, visit www.interpark.com or call 1544-2026. Located near Hoegi Station on subway line 1.
RAJATON Concert
A cappella group Rajaton from Finland will visit Korea. Meaning ``unlimited'' or ``innfinite'' in Finnish, Rajaton will present various genres, ranging from Scandinavian music to rock 'n' roll. Tickets cost from 30,000 won to 80,000 won. For more information, visit www.vincero.co.kr or call (02) 599-5743. Located near exits 4 and 5 of Nambu Bus Terminal on subway line 3.
Lee Hyo-ri's First Solo Concert
Jamsil Gymnasium
Dec. 20
Top Korean pop star Lee Hyo-ri will have her first solo concer on Dec.20. Titled ``Invincible Lee Hyo-ri,'' the concert will feature her hit songs from the late 90s to recent hip hop numbers. Tickets cost from 66,000 won to 99,000 won. For more information, visit theater.ticketlink.co.kr or call (02) 541-4150. Located near exits 6 and 7 of Sports Complex Station on subway line 2.
Tahiti 80's Korea Tour
Samseong Fashion Center
Pop group Tahiti 80 visits Korea for the first time. The English language French group has shared music styles with French electronic musicians such as Daft Punk, but distinguished themselves with their exclusive vintage sounds. To celebrate their new album, ``Activity Center,'' they will also play hit songs including ?000 Times, ``Big Day,'' and ``Heartbeat.'' Tickets cost 66,000 won. For more information, visit www.mintpaper.com. Located near exit 4 of Samseong Station on subway line 2.
Lee Seung-hwan's Christmas Concert `Original'
Dec. 24-26
Korean musician Lee Seung-hwan is to present his first ``ballad only'' concert. Lee, who next year will mark his 20th year as a singer, will grace fans with his delicate and soft ballad numbers at this special event. Tickets cost from 55,000 won to 132,000 won. For more information, visit www.interpark.com or call (02) 563-0595. Located near exit 3 of Olympic Park Station on subway line 5.
Plays and Musicals
Encore `The Old Thieves' Story'
Wonder Space
Through Jan. 4
One of Daehangno's best-selling plays is returning to the stage. After spending many years in prison, two old thieves decide to rob an art gallery. However, the clumsy thieves get caught and go through strict, yet strange tests aimed at finding the true mastermind behind the burglary. Tickets cost 35,000 won. For more information, visit www.idsartcenter.co.kr or call (02) 766-6007, 741-3391. Located near exit 1 of Hyehwa Station on subway line 4.
Our Joyful Young Days
Doosan Arts Center
Through Dec. 31
The life of Lee Sang, the great poet from 1930s Gyeongseong (Seoul's name during the Japanese colonial period), comes to the stage via the play ``Our Joyful Young Days.'' By following Gwon Yeong-hee's (Lee's lover) life, the play reveals jealousy and struggle between the renowned artists of the 1930s. Tickets cost 25,000 won. For more information, visit ticket.interpark.com or call (02) 708-5001. Located near exit 1 of Jongno 5-ga Station on subway line 5.
Doctor Irabu's Episode 1
Star City Theater
Through March 1
Dr. Irabu is a character from the Japanese best selling novel by Okuda Hideo. Winner of the Naoki Literature Prize, the play offers several obsessive-compulsives on the stage, satirizing modern society. Eccentric and unique characters successfully melt into the comedy. Tickets cost 25,000 won. For more information, visit club.cyworld.com/tobe2005 or call (02) 744-7304. Located near exit 3 of Hyehwa Station on subway line 4.
Hamlet
Theater S
The classic musical Hamlet, based on the play by William Shakespeare, has returned. The Korean version added powerful and dynamic movements to the performance, and recently gained its own license. Tickets cost from 44,000 won to 66,000 won. For more information, visit www.musicalhamlet.com or call (02) 556-9885. Located near exit 2 of Hyochang Park Station on subway line 6.
Cats
Charlotte Theater
Through Dec. 28
Ever since it was first written by Andrew Lloyd Webber and produced by Cameron Mackintosh, more than six million people from all over the world have seen this exciting work. Shin Yeong-suk and Ock Ju-hyeon play Grizabella, while Kim Jin-su and Dae-sung play Rum Tum Tugger. Tickets cost from 40,000 won to 120,000 won. For more information, visit www.musicalcats.co.kr or call (02) 501-7888. Located near exit 3 of Jamsil Station on subway lines 2 and 8.
Shear Madness
Daehangno Art Madang
``Shear Madness'' follows a murder case that happens in a beauty salon of the same name. What is unique is that every episode ends with a different ending, as the play lets the audience figure out who the murderer is. Tickets cost 20,000 won. For more information, visit shearmadness.co.kr or call (02-501-7888. Located near exit 2 of Hyehwa Station on subway line 4.
Dandelion That Becomes the Wind
Dongsoong Art Center
Actor Cho Jae-hyun comes back to the stage as an old man who lives in his memories after losing his wife. Directed by Kim Nak-hyeong, winner of the Artist of the Year in 2006 by the Arts Council Korea. Tickets cost from 25,000 won to 35,000 won. For more information, visit www.idsartcenter.co.kr or call (02) 766-6007. Located near exit 1 of Hyehwa Station on subway line 4.
Musical 200-Pound Beauty
Chungmu Art Hall
The movie ``200-Pound Beauty'' (2006) comes to the stage as a romantic-comedy musical with renowned Broadway music director Tim Acito and stage director Brian Prather. Tickets cost from 40,000 won to 90,000 won. For more information, visit www.musicalbeautifulgirl.com or call (02) 3485-8700. Located near exit 2 of Dongdaemun Stadium on subway lines 2, 4, and 5.
Love and Blood
Daehangno Open Theater
This is the first musical to portray the personalities of people with different blood types. Try guessing the blood type of the four characters, each possessing vastly different personalities. Tickets cost from 40,000 won to 120,000 won. For more information, visit www.ticketlink.co.kr or call 1577-5878. Located near exit 4 of Hyehwa Station on subway line 4.