REVIEW Preview gala sets stage for grand premiere of 'La Rose de Versailles' musical
The musical concert "La Rose de Versailles" is staged at the LG Art Center in Gangseo District, western Seoul, Sunday. Courtesy of EMK Musical Company
Audiences were treated to a preview of the musical "La Rose de Versailles," set to debut in July 2024, through a concert over the weekend, signaling the arrival of a new masterpiece.
Prior to its official production, "La Rose de Versailles" garnered huge anticipation among musical enthusiasts. The concert showcased the key numbers before the musical premiers.
The musical "La Rose de Versailles" is based on Riyoko Ikeda's iconic Japanese manga, "The Rose of Versailles," serialized from 1972 to 1973, known as revolutionizing the landscape of Japanese romance comics. It was adapted into a television animation in 1979 and was also brought to the stage by Japan's all-female theater troupe, the Takarazuka Revue.
The new Korean adaptation, written and directed by Wang Yong-bum and composed by Brandon Lee, aims to bring to life the manga's intricate artistry and emotionally charged narrative.
The narrative centers around Oscar Francois de Jarjayes, born into an aristocratic family as the youngest daughter, but raised as a man to fulfill her father's expectations. Serving as the guard commander to Queen Marie Antoinette during the French Revolution, Oscar finds herself entangled in a web of internal conflict and turmoil. Her story, a compelling blend of romance and revolutionary fervor, unfolds onstage, setting the scene for a captivating narrative.
In the musical, esteemed actresses Ok Joo-hyun and Kim Ji-woo portray the central character, Oscar. Alongside them are actors Lee Hae-jun, Yoon So-ho, Jung Baek-sun, Chang Hye-rin, Lisa, and Park Hye-mi, each contributing their talents to the production.
During Sunday's concert, attended by this reporter, Ok and Kim showcased their prowess as Oscar, with Lee portraying Oscar's servant Andre Grandier, Yoon as Bernard Chatelet also known as the Black Knight, and Lisa embodying the power-driven villain, Duchess Of Polignac.
The cast lineup for the musical "La Rose de Versailles" / Courtesy of EMK Musical Company
The concert kicked off with Kim's performance of "I, Oscar" (translated title), a powerful rendition that highlighted the actress' superb dramatic skills. Kim's stage presence was further elevated by the ensemble's harmony and its eye-catching choreography.
Particular attention was drawn to "You Only Give to Me" (translated title), a number capturing Oscar's feelings for Andre and the profound connection between the two characters. Ok, celebrated as one of Korea's best vocalists, delivered a captivating performance that resonated throughout the entire concert hall.
Conducted by Lee, the composer, the concert featured the impressive live performance of the Brandon Chamber Orchestra, heightening expectations for the full performance.
During the concert, Lee shared insights into the challenges of composing this musical.
"I thought composing would get easier as I got older, but it actually got harder, to my surprise," Lee said. "This time, I composed music that serves as an embodiment of the era, contemplating both the protagonist's complex emotions and the historical backdrop."
Lee also demonstrated his dedication by borrowing the orchestra's guitar and delivering a personal performance.
The "La Rose de Versailles" musical concert also treated audiences to the vibrant stage costumes of the characters, providing a visual feast ranging from the colorful Rococo-themed dresses to court uniforms adorned with sparkling gold roses. The lifelike production left the audience brimming with anticipation as they exited the concert hall, eagerly looking forward to the upcoming performance.
The grand unveiling of the musical "La Rose de Versailles" is scheduled for July next year at Chungmu Art Center, Seoul.