Seoul Metropolitan Dance Company Presents ‘Ilmu,’ a New Interpretation of Jongmyo Jeryeak Dance

May 19-22 at Sejong Center Grand Theater

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Heeyoon] The Seoul Metropolitan Dance Company announced on the 19th that it will perform 'Ilmu' (佾舞) at the Sejong Center Grand Theater from the 19th to the 22nd of next month.

'Ilmu' is a performance based on Jongmyo Jeryeak, a national intangible cultural asset and a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage. Jongmyo Jeryeak is ritual music performed during ceremonies at Jongmyo Shrine, where the spirit tablets of Joseon Dynasty kings are enshrined. It consists of instrumental music accompanied by the dance Ilmu (佾舞) and songs.

This performance will showcase not only Jongmyo Jeryeak but also court dances and newly created Ilmu choreography.

Act 1 presents the representative Ilmu dances of civil and military officials, newly reinterpreted while maintaining the original choreography and formations. In Act 2, Chun-aengjeon and the court dance Gainjeonmokdan are reinterpreted, featuring fast dance movements set to intense music.

In Act 3, contemporary choreographers Kim Seonghoon, Kim Jaedeok, and Jeong Hyejin, director of the Seoul Metropolitan Dance Company, will present 'Shin Ilmu,' a newly choreographed Ilmu.

Creative director Jung Kooho was responsible for the overall design of the mise-en-sc?ne, including directing, stage, costumes, lighting, and props.

Jeong Hyejin, director of the Seoul Metropolitan Dance Company, said, "Through the dancers' large-scale group dances, precise formations, and lines, we seek to rediscover the spirit of our tradition and hope that all generations living in the present can empathize and move forward together through this stage."

The performance will be held at the Sejong Center Grand Theater from the 19th to the 22nd of next month.