Korean-American explores roots with role in `Dood Rock`

During a sound test Monday for "Dood Rock," a popular percussion show that has returned to the Chongdong Theater in Seoul, the pounding of traditional Korean instruments reverberated throughout the hall. The sound was thrilling, but this reporter`s attention was focused on Ellen Hwalan Shub, 28.

Shub is a Korean-American who left the motherland at the age of one. "Somewhere near Kwanghwamun is my birthplace," she stammered out in clumsy Korean, saying English comes much more easily to her.

"Dood Rock" is composed of seven different themes like "Rhythm and Dance Panorama," "Recycling," "Scissor Hands," and "Korea Fantasy." Compared to competing percussion-oriented shows like "Nanta" or "Tokebi Storm," "Dood Rock" is much more diverse. In addition to drumming, the show features impromptu plays, mime, dance and rap. Adding these new "colors" to the performance is Shub`s major role.

"Getting involved with `Dood Rock` and traditional Korean percussion allowed me to gain insight into my ancestral home. I`m glad to be engaged in the arts and I`m enjoying finding out about new genres in music and the visual and performing arts," she said.

"Dood Rock" runs from March 1 to March 31 at Chongdong Theater (022-773-8960). Show time is at 7:30 p.m. and ticket prices range from 10,000 won to 30,000 won.

Kim Gab-Sik gskim@donga.com