Traditional dance masters on stage
By Rachel Lee
Masters of Korean traditional dances are set to deliver rare performances showcasing skills gained after decades of practice.
“Masterpieces of Korean Dance,” hosted by the Korea Cultural Heritage Foundation, will take place at LG Arts Center in southern Seoul on June 9.
The evening’s entertainment will center around Lee Mae-bang, 84, known for “Seungmu,” the monk’s dance and “Salpuri,” a soul-purifying dance, and Kim Baek-bong, 84, famed for “Hwagwanmu,” a floral coronet dance and “Buchaechum,” or fan dance.
The two prominent dancers will grace the stage with other artists including Kim Mal-ae, 62, Kim Mae-ja, 68 and Guk Su-ho, 63, known for his performances of “Ipchum,” meaning basic dance. Director Jin Ok-seop described the upcoming event as “the best of Korean dance,” at a press conference held in Seoul on May 21.
“This performance is designed around the two dancers who have spent their entire lives becoming accomplished in different types of Korean dance,” said Ryu Chan, an organizer.
Lee began to learn dancing when he was seven years old. H
Jun 1, 2012By Do Je-hae