Two Experimental Works by Young Groups of Artists Now on Stage

Two theatrical plays seeking “experimentalism and creativity” will soon be introduced to the public. The National Theater and Seoul Fringe Network 2002 are poised to host two “outstanding experimental works” at Byeoloreum Hall in the National Theater from September 5 to 29.

The annual event, which took place for the second time, will introduce two stage works exploring unique stage languages. Two companies each based on Busan and Gyeonggi-do will play “Anti Oedipus (from September 5 through 15)” and “Variety (from 9 through 29)” respectively. This will be a rare chance for Seoulites to meet works by local theaters.

Gallery Theater is set to infuse pictures into theater settings through “Anti Oedipus.” The stage will be decorated with traditional Korean wallpaper and artifacts in the shape of hands and feet, creating a stage art-like atmosphere. A story about a young man and his father, who go through confrontation and reconciliation, will be focused on the young man’s struggle with the world. The unique stage setting was done by professional artists, and actors and actresses will make their own drawings on stage as well. Casts include Yoo Sung-joo, Cho Chang-joo and Moon Sun-ae.

“We hope the audience will experience a collision between drawings and dramas crossing the line between painting and theatrical arts,” said director Huh Han-bum.

“Variety” by Mom Theater will exhibit everyday human activities such as walking, running, eating and sleeping in a form of traditional performances such as a mask dance and a courtyard play. Everyday routines of members in a family will be played out through dynamic performances of farmers’ musical instruments and traditional exorcism. The first part of the play will also run a 17 minute-long short movie “Dancing Away a Day.” Casts include Kim Young-han, Kim Mi-yang, Park Jin-taek and Jung Gu-jin.

“Variety tells about the absence of communication among family members and alienation in the modern society,” said director Park Hong-jin. “We have combined Korean traditional plays and Western pantomimes in a move to tap into the global stage.”

The performance is slated for 7:30 p.m. on weekdays, 4:00 and 7:00 p.m. on Saturday and 4:00 p.m. on Sunday (Monday off). Tickets are sold for 8,000 won to 12,000 won. For further inquiries, call 02-747-4555 or 02-325-8150.

Tae-Hun Hwang beetlez@donga.com