Performances at royal banquet hall

A series of performances will take place later this month to celebrate the 600th anniversary of an iconic royal banquet hall in downtown Seoul.

Traditional shows will be held at 8 p.m., March 28-30, at Gyeonghoeru, which served as Gyeongbok Palace’s main venue for hosting diplomats and other state ceremonies during the Joseon Kingdom (1392-1910) and is designated National Treasure No. 224.

“Gyeonghoeru Yeonhyang” will comprise of Joseon court music and dance amid the scenic backdrop of the building and its surroundings. The three-part program will feature reenactments of ceremonies feting the longevity of the Joseon Kingdom and the palace, banquets for foreign dignitaries and the 19th-century reconstruction of Gyeonghoeru under King Gojong.

The country’s foremost artists will take the stage for the occasion. Legendary “pansori” (Korean opera) master Ahn Sook-seon is set to sing pieces by late 19th-century court singer Jin Chae-seon while Kim Hye-ran will offer vocal folk pieces. Visitors can also enjoy watching “jultagi” or theatrical acrobatic tightrope walking.

Tickets can be purchased in advance beginning 2 p.m., Thursday, at www.interpark.co.kr. Call (02) 3011-2151 for more information.