Opening in Busan on the 30th, Seoul Performance in July
Fifth Performance Since 2001 Premiere, Third in Korean
Challenges in Translating Korean Culture
"In the past, the relationship between 'The Phantom of the Opera' and Korean audiences was like that of lovers, but now it is like a married couple."
These were the words conveyed by Rainer Fried, the associate director of the musical 'The Phantom of the Opera,' at a press conference held on the 6th at the Westin Chosun Seoul Hotel in Jung-gu, Seoul. Ahead of the third Korean-language production performance in 21 years since the premiere, he said, "Since the first Korean premiere in 2001, there have been two Korean-language performances and three original international tours in Korea. Korea is the only country in the world where 'The Phantom of the Opera' was performed even during the COVID-19 period. Also, no other country has hosted the show as frequently as Korea."
He went on to emphasize 'The Phantom of the Opera' as a catalyst for the growth of the domestic musical market. He stated, "When the first Korean-language performance was staged in 2001, the Korean musical market was very small, but 'The Phantom of the Opera' sparked a musical boom, leading Korea to achieve tremendous growth that is unheard of worldwide. That is something I am very proud of." To date, 'The Phantom of the Opera' has been seen by 145 million people in 188 cities worldwide in 17 languages.
This production introduces several changes to the original framework. Shin Dong-won, CEO of the production company S&Co, said, "While the goal is to realize originality, we prepared new sets from the UK for this season. Including the iconic chandelier, the Phantom of the Opera enters by boat, and magical scenes like the rising candelabra have been newly set up. It will feel like walking into an art gallery."
The smooth translation of the Korean lyrics is also noteworthy. CEO Shin said, "In the previous productions in 2001 and 2009, it was difficult to reflect our opinions, but this time, flexible changes were made to suit Korean culture and to make it easier for actors to perform." He added, "There is a significant difference compared to previous productions." Director Rainer Fried also said, "We put a lot of thought into how to make the translation better than the original text. We asked actors and staff a lot about how to effectively convey it to the audience." He added, "The process of making it culturally natural without being forced is very interesting and gives a great sense of accomplishment."
In this production, the role of the Phantom of the Opera is played by Jo Seung-woo, Choi Jae-rim, Kim Ju-taek, and Jeon Dong-seok. While double (2 actors) or triple (3 actors) casting is common in domestic performances, this time, as many as four actors were cast. Regarding this, Rainer Fried joked, "Honestly, it's tiring," and said, "I understand there are practical issues. Because of such concerns, we extended the early rehearsal period, but the actors taught each other, supported one another, and showed patience, which actually made it easier."
It is also unique that the first performance will open in Busan before Seoul. CEO Shin said, "We are making efforts to revitalize regional performances. In the past, Busan did not have suitable venues, but now with the Dream Theater, a musical-dedicated theater, the audience's needs are met. We aim to challenge ourselves so that Busan can grow into a cultural market responsible for the southern part of Korea."
The performance will open on the 30th at Busan Dream Theater and then move to Seoul Charlotte Theater from July 14 to welcome audiences.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
