Exhibitions

Linda McCartney Retrospective: Daelim Museum in Seoul is holding a retrospective on photographer Linda McCartney until April 26, 2015. The first retrospective here of the celebrated photographer shows McCartney’s earlier works, including portraits of popular musicians such as Eric Clapton and Jimi Hendrix, family photos depicting her happy life with Paul McCartney and their children, and later works that capture the beauty of daily life and nature. Admission is 5,000 won for adults. The museum is located next to Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul. For more information, visit www.daelimmuseum.org. 

“National Song Contest”: The Buk Seoul Museum of Art is presenting a photo exhibition by artist Byun Soon-cheol, who has been documenting the long-running, popular singing audition TV program “National Song Contest.” The exhibition showcases 40 portraits of contestants of the program, revealing their long-cherished passion to sing and dance onstage. The exhibition features a video documenting audience members and contestants of the program from the point of view of the artist. The exhibition continues through January 2015 at the museum in Nowon-gu, Seoul. For more information, call (02) 2124-5270.

“Blue jeans”: The National Folk Museum of Korea’s ongoing exhibition on blue jeans offers a rare glimpse into how the denim pants moved from work clothes for Californian gold miners in the 19th century to streetwear that can be found in almost every Korean young person’s wardrobe today. Apart from the historic items on display ― mostly pants and things that were associated with the garment ― the exhibition tells a great deal about the wearers through interviews with about 500 people. It continues through Feb. 23, 2015, at the museum on the grounds of Gyeongbokgung Palace, central Seoul. Admission is free. For details, visit www.nfm.go.kr.

“Morning Calm: Through the Persian Light”: Opera Gallery Seoul is presenting a solo exhibition of the Iranian artist Reza Derakshani from Nov. 6-30. Derakshani, a painter, musician and performance artist, is showcasing 25 paintings that portray landscape and heritage sites of Korea expressed in his colorful Persian-style. The artist’s past works have been exhibited in major museums and galleries around the world, including the Brooklyn Museum in New York in 2000 and Salsali Private Museum in Dubai in 2012. Derakshani is known to depict his inner self and seek pure forms of aesthetics in visual art and music rather than engage with the current political and social situation in Iran ― a popular theme for many contemporary Iranian artists. The artist will give a talk at the gallery on Nov. 6. For more information, call (02) 3446-0070.

Lee Bul: The artist Lee Bul is presenting two gigantic installations in her new exhibition at the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Seoul. One, titled “Civitas Solis (The City of the Sun),” occupies the largest exhibition hall of the museum. Mirror fragments cover all sides of the room and form corridors to create a labyrinth of mirrors. From here, viewers are led to a room containing the other creation, a rocket-like installation named “Aubade III” that emits mist into the air and looks like an abandoned spaceship. The exhibition is the first of a series of art shows that the state-run MMCA is planning to hold in partnership with Hyundai Motor Group. It runs through March 1, 2015, at the Seoul branch of the MMCA. For more information, visit www.mmca.go.kr.

Festivals

Gunsan International Migratory Bird Festival: Magnificent scenes of thousands of migratory birds dancing in droves will unfold over the mudflats and reed fields in Gunsan, North Jeolla Province, during the 11th Gunsan International Migratory Bird Festival from Nov. 14-16. The festival offers a rare chance to observe more than 50 species of winter migratory birds from the bird-watching corridor on the embankment of the Geumgang River. Programs include a migratory bird watching tour, a release of birds that have recovered from injuries and a bird drawing contest. For more information, visit www.gmbo.kr.

Paju Jangdan Soybean Festival: The festival promotes Jangdan soybeans produced in the border town of Paju, Gyeonggi Province. Soybeans grown in the region have been known for their high nutritional value and nutty flavor. The festival invites visitors to cook a variety of foods with Jangdan soybeans, such as rice cakes and tofu. The festival takes place at Imjingak Plaza from Nov. 21-23. For more information, call (031) 940-5281.

Seoul Lantern Festival: A 1.2-kilometer stretch of Cheonggyecheon Stream will be dotted with colorful lanterns from Nov. 7-23. This year’s lantern festival recreates the tangible and intangible heritages of Korea, including Incheong-jeon (The Hall of Benevolent Government in the UNESCO-registered Changdeokgung Palace), “Hunminjeongeum” (the document describing the Korean alphabet), “Donguibogam (The Principles and Practices of Eastern Medicine)” and the kimchi-making process. The festival offers various programs, including a lantern-making craft class under Gwanggyo Bridge and an art book-making event featuring photos of UNESCO World Heritage sites. For more information, visit seoullantern.visitseoul.net.

Pop music

Limp Bizkit: The American band credited with giving birth to Nu Metal by combining rap and hardcore rock, Limp Bizkit is returning to Korea for its first headline show in five years. After forming in 1994, Limp Bizkit found mainstream success thanks largely to its rendition of the George Michael single “Faith,” followed by the smash hit singles “Nookie,” “Break Stuff,” “Rollin’” and “My Way.” The band has sold more than 35 million albums worldwide on top of being nominated for three Grammy Awards. Limp Bizkit will be holding its upcoming solo concert at Seoul Olympic Park’s Olympic Hall on Nov. 12. Ticket prices range from 99,000 won to 121,000 won. For more information, call (02) 3141-3488 or visit www.interpark.com.

“Singing in the Smile with Michael Bolton”: American singer-songwriter Michael Bolton is gearing up for two solo concerts in Seoul. The multi-Grammy Award-winning artist is the voice behind some of the greatest American rock ballads, including “How Am I Supposed to Live Without You,” “When a Man Loves a Woman” and “Said I Loved You … But I Lied.” In Bolton’s illustrious musical career, which spans nearly four decades, he has sold more than 75 million records worldwide with more than 15 studio albums to his name ― a majority of which topped the charts in the States. Bolton will be performing at Seoul Olympic Park’s Gymnastics Stadium on Nov. 21 and 22. Ticket prices range from 77,000 won to 143,000 won. For more information, call (02) 3141-3488 or visit www.interpark.com.

“Akon Super Stage”: Popular American hip-hop artist and producer Akon will be coming to Seoul in November to perform a collaborative concert with local hip-hop artists Bumkey, San E and YDG. Akon first made a name for himself as a hip-hop artist after the release of his debut album “Trouble,” featuring the hit single “Locked Up.” In 2006, Akon released his second follow-up album, “Konvicted,” which was nominated for three Grammy Awards. Two years later, he unveiled his platinum-selling album “Freedom,” which included some of his most representative singles: “Right Now (Na Na Na),” “I’m So Paid,” “Beautiful” and “We Don’t Care.” Akon will be performing at the Jamsil Indoor Stadium in Seoul on Nov. 27. Ticket prices range from 50,000 won to 130,000 won. For more information, call (02) 3141-3488 or visit www.interpark.com.

“Tenacious D”: Rock musician and Hollywood actor Jack Black, best known for his role as Dewey Finn in the blockbuster hit “School of Rock,” will be coming to Seoul along with bandmate Kyle Gass for the comedy rock duo Tenacious D’s first concert in Korea. The band is known for Black’s thespian-like vocals and the quick-witted crude humor that people have come to expect from the rocker-comedian. In 2012, Tenacious D released its most recent album, “Rize of the Fenix,” which received a Grammy Award nomination for Best Comedy Album in 2013. The duo is slated to perform two live shows at Seoul Olympic Park’s Olympic Hall on Dec. 5 and 6. Ticket prices range from 99,000 won to 121,000 won. For more information, call (02) 3141-3488 or visit www.interpark.com.

Dance

“Cavalia”: The world’s biggest touring tent Big Top has been erected in Jamsil-dong, near the Olympic Stadium, for the equestrian circus “Cavalia.” Created by Normand Latourelle, one of the cofounders of famed Cirque du Soleil, Cavalia is an innovative production that boldly explores the boundaries of equestrian arts and acrobatic feats. Staged by the original Canadian cast and some 50 beautiful horses, the show will premiere on Nov. 12 and will continue through Dec. 28. Tickets cost 50,000 won to 250,000 won. For more information, call (02) 1588-5212 or visit www.c-live.co.kr.

“Snow White”: As part of Hyundai Card Culture Project 16, the ballet version of “Snow White” is making its way to Seoul this winter. Based on the original Brothers Grimm version of the classic fairytale, “Snow White” has been reinterpreted as a romantic contemporary ballet. The magical and enchanting ballet features choreography by Angelin Preljocaj and music by Gustav Mahler. “Snow White” will be performed at the Seoul Arts Center Opera Theater from Nov. 14-16. Tickets range from 30,000 won to 150,000 won. For more information, call (02) 3141-3488 or visit www.interpark.com.

“Swan Lake”: The Russia Novosibirsk State Academic Opera and Ballet Theater troupe is making its way to Seoul for its production of one of the ballet world’s classic tales ― “Swan Lake.” The original Russian tale is about a young princess who is turned into a swan after being under an evil spell. Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov first staged the ballet in 1876 and it has been revised countless times over the years. The upcoming production of “Swan Lake” will be held at the Sejong Center in Seoul for three days, from Dec. 12-14. Tickets range from 50,000 won to 300,000 won. For more information, call (02) 3141-3488 or visit www.interpark.com.

“The Nutcracker”: The original production of “The Nutcracker” was created in 1892 by Marius Petipa and choreographed by Lev Ivanov. To this day, the internationally successful ballet piece remains a classic holiday tale. In 1986, Universal Ballet first presented its version of “The Nutcracker” by Adrienne Dellas in Seoul. In 1999, the ballet was reinterpreted here by choreographer Vasily Vainonen. The upcoming performance will be staged at the Universal Arts Center in Seoul from Dec. 19-31.

Classical music

Placido Domingo: Spanish tenor-turned-baritone Placido Domingo, best known here as a member of the legendary Three Tenors with Jose Carreras and the late Luciano Pavarotti, is coming to Seoul for his first solo concert in five years. He will sing both classical and crossover scores, including “Perhaps Love.” The concert will be at the Olympic Park in Jamsil on Nov. 23. Tickets cost 99,000 to 253,000 won. For more information, call 1661-7738. 

The Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra: Maestro Mariss Jansons will conduct his Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra in two concerts at Seoul Arts Center. On Nov. 18, the world-renowned orchestra will perform Dvorak’s Symphony No. 9 “From the New World” and Mussorgsky’s “Pictures at an Exhibition (arr. Ravel).” The program for the next day consists of Strauss’ “Don Juan” and “Der Rosenkavalier Suite (The Knight of the Rose)” and Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 5. Tickets run from 60,000 won to 320,000 won. For details, call (02) 580-1300 or visit www.vincero.co.kr.

Jose Carreras: Another legendary Spanish tenor, Jose Carreras, will hold two concerts in Seoul’s Sejong Center for the Performing Arts on Nov. 22-23. The program is filled with Korean favorites such as “Moon River,” “Santa Lucia,” and “Nessun Dorma.” The tenor will also duet with Korean soprano Cathleen Kim. Tickets cost 55,000 won to 440,000 won. For information call 1544-1887.

“Arriving on the Waters like the Moon”: Seoul Metropolitan Opera will premiere an original Korean opera based on a real-life crime story, “Arriving on the Waters like the Moon,” at the Sejong Center’s M Theater in Seoul on Nov. 20. The libretto is written by playwright Ko Yeon-ok and its music is composed by Seoul National University music professor Uzong Choe. The opera will run through Nov. 23. Ticket prices range from 10,000 won to 70,000 won. For details, call (02) 399-1783.

Murray Perahia and ASMF: The London-based chamber orchestra the Academy of Saint Martin in the Fields is coming to Korea for two concerts in November, together with celebrated pianist Murray Perahia. Perahia will join the concerts, to be held at Seoul Arts Center on Nov. 10 and 11, as a conductor and piano soloist. The program includes Beethoven’s piano concerto “The Emperor” on Nov. 10 and Haydn’s Symphony No. 94 in G major (“Surprise”) on Nov. 11. Ticket prices range from 50,000 won to 200,000 won. For details, call 1577-5266 or visit www.clubbalcony.com.

“Aida 1963”: Famed opera director Franco Zeffirelli’s 1963 production of Verdi’s opera “Aida” at La Scala in Milan will be revived in Seoul in celebration of the 130th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Korea and Italy. It will be staged at the Seoul Arts Center in southern Seoul from Nov. 25 to 30. Tickets prices range from 77,000 won to 330,000 won. For more information, call (02) 722-5822.

Chung Myung-whun: Maestro Chung Myung-whun is holding his first recital tour of Korea as a pianist rather than as a conductor. He will play at Seoul Arts Center in Seoul on Dec. 27 and in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, and Daejeon early next year. The program consists mostly of short piano pieces by Brahms and Chopin. Ticket prices range from 44,000 won to 132,000 won. For details, call (02) 558-4588.

Theater

“Tribes”: A play by English theater director and playwright Nina Raine, “Tribes” is being staged for the first time in Korea by director Park Jung-hee. The play centers on a Jewish British family of five ― Beth and Christopher and their three grown children, including the youngest, Billy, who is deaf. Billy brings his girlfriend Sylvia, a hearing woman born to deaf parents, home for dinner. The family’s interactions with her reveal the meaning of family and communication. “Tribes” will run until Dec. 14 at Seoul Arts Center’s Jayu Theater, near Nambu Bus Terminal Station. Tickets are 35,000 won and 50,000 won. For details, call (02) 580-1300 or visit www.sacticket.co.kr. 

“Andrei Serban’s Different Chunhyang”: Based on the pansori (Korean folk narrative) “Chunhyangga,” Korea’s most popular love story is recreated as changgeuk, a form of Korean traditional opera, by renowned director Andrei Serban. The Romanian-born American theater director takes the original story of Seong Chun-hyang, the daughter of a low-class retired female entertainer, and Lee Mong-ryong, the son of a nobleman, and modernizes the settings, dialogues and costumes to suit today’s audiences. “Andrei Serban’s Different Chunhyang” runs from Nov. 20 to Dec. 6 at Daloreum Theater at the National Theater of Korea near Dongguk University Station. Tickets range from 20,000 won to 50,000 won and English translation is provided during the show. For details, call (02) 2280-4114 or visit www.ntok.go.kr.

“Gongmudoha”: The National Gugak Center is presenting an original Korean opera from Nov. 21-30 at its main hall in southern Seoul. Set in gugak, traditional Korean music, the production draws from the eponymous ancient poem, which starts with the famous line “My love, don’t cross that river,” but explores contemporary life questions. Renowned stage director Lee Youn-taek penned the production and is directing it. Tickets cost from 10,000 won to 50,000 won. For more information, visit www.gugak.go.kr or call (02) 580-3300.

Marie Antoinette”: The EMK Musical Company has raised the curtain on its most ambitious production this year ― “Marie Antoinette.” With music by Sylvester Levay and lyrics by Michael Kunze, the show tells the story of two parallel lives ― the infamous queen of France and Margrid Arnaud, a poor woman ― in the turbulent days of the French Revolution. Idol singer-turned-musical actress Ock Joo-hyun will play Marie Antoinette. “Marie Antoinette” premiered Nov. 1 at Charlotte Theater in Jamsil-dong. For details, call (02) 6391-6333.

“Kinky Boots”: A Broadway musical that bagged six Tony Awards last year is having its first off-Broadway run in Seoul in December. A collaboration between Broadway producers and Korean entertainment firm CJ E&M, the show is based on the 2005 film of the same title, with music and lyrics by Cyndi Lauper. A struggling British shoe factory’s young, straitlaced owner, Charlie, forms an unlikely partnership with Lola, a drag queen, to save the business. The Korean rendition of “Kinky Boots” opens Dec. 5 at Chungmu Art Hall in Seoul. For details, call (02) 2230-6600.

“Once”: The Korean production of “Once” will open Dec. 14 at Seoul Arts Center for a three-month run. Based on the 2006 film of the same title, the original Broadway musical won eight Tony Awards in 2012, including the trophy for the year’s best musical. For its Korean version, veteran rocker Yoon Do-hyun will play the lead role. He will play Guy, an Irish street musician and vacuum cleaner repairman who falls in love with Girl, a Czech flower seller. Yoon will rotate with musical actor Lee Chang-hee for the role, and two emerging musical actresses, Jeon Mi-do and Park Ji-yeon, will play Girl. “Once” will run from Dec. 14 through March 29 at the 1,000-seat CJ Towol Theater in Seoul Arts Center. Tickets cost 60,000 won to 120,000 won. For details, call (02) 577-1987.

“Notre-Dame de Paris”: The original French production of the famous musical “Notre-Dame de Paris” will be staged in Korea, marking the 10th anniversary of the show’s Korean premiere in 2006. Based on French writer Victor Hugo’s popular novel “The Hunchback of Notre-Dame,” the musical tells the story of Quasimodo, a deformed hunchback who dwells within Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris and falls in love with a beautiful gypsy dancer, Esmeralda. Starting in Daegu in December, it will tour multiple cities for three months. It will come to Seoul’s Sejong Center for Performing Arts on Jan. 15, 2015. For details, call (02) 749-9037.

“Woyzeck”: A musical adaptation of “Woyzeck,” a play by German playwright Georg Buchner from 1836-37, is being staged at LG Arts Center in southern Seoul. For the show, producer Yun Ho-jin, the man behind Korea’s two most successful original musicals, “Last Empress” and “Hero,” put together an international creative team, including British band the Singing Loins, which composed the score. The story is about Woyzeck, a poor, downtrodden solider who kills his unfaithful lover, Marie, and faces tragic consequences. Musical actors Kim Soo-yong and Kim Dae-hyun will play the troubled protagonist, opposite Sophie Kim as Marie. It runs through Nov. 18. Tickets run from 40,000 won to 80,000 won. For details, visit www.lgart.com.

“Rudolf”: The Seoul-based EMK Musical Company is once again staging “Rudolf,” an Austrian musical about Rudolf, the crown prince of Austria (1858-89), and his extramarital affair with Baroness Mary Vetsera. The piece is based on the widespread assumption that the crown prince and his mistress committed suicide together at his Mayerling hunting lodge in 1889. Musical stars Im Tae-gyeong and Ahn Jae-wook, who played the ill-fated prince in the 2012 premier, return for the role. “Rudolf” runs from Oct. 11 to Jan. 4 at D-Cube Art Center, located near Exit 1 of Sindorim Station. Tickets cost 60,000 won to 130,000 won. For more information, call (02) 6391-6333.

“On Golden Pond”: Based on American playwright Ernest Thompson, “On Golden Pond” will be staged with veteran actors and actresses including Lee Soon-jae, Na Moon-hee and Shin Goo. The play is about aging couple Ethel and Norman, who spend each summer at their vacation home on Golden Pond in Maine. When they are visited by their daughter Chelsea, whom they haven’t seen for years, and her fiance, Norman tries hard to mend his strained relationship with Chelsea while preparing for his death. The play illustrates different kinds of relationship and the meanings of life and death. “On Golden Pond” runs through Nov. 23 at Daemyung Culture Factory, near Hyehwa Station on Line 4. Tickets run from 40,000 won to 65,000 won. For details, call (070) 7712-4388.