Giacomo Puccini’s three-act Italian opera “Turandot” has been given new life as a Korean-language musical.
Since its premiere as part of the Daegu International Musical Festival in 2010, producer Yoo Hei-sung’s musical rendition of “Turandot” has toured across China, in Dongguan, Ningbo, Hangzhou and other cities. Now, six years since its premiere, the opera-turned-musical has finally made its way to the Seoul stage.
Scene from the Korean musical rendition of the popular Puccini opera, “Turandot.” (PRM)
“It has been six very long years, but now I am happy to say that ‘Turandot’ will finally be performed in front of audiences in Seoul,” said Yoo during a press conference held at the D Cube Art Center in Seoul on Friday.
“Over the years the production evolved so much and we have been doing everything we can to ensure that this musical will not be a disappointment,” he added.
“Following our opening night performance (Wednesday) we received a lot positive reviews, so I am very happy with the ways things turned out,” said Yoo.
The latest musical has stirred up hype not only for its Seoul premiere, but also because the production’s local showings feature an all-star cast that includes Park So-yeon, Lisa, Ali, Lee Kun-Myeong and Lee Chang-min of 2AM.
The production will mark K-pop starlet Ali’s first-ever musical production.
Scene from the Korean musical rendition of the popular Puccini opera, “Turandot.” (PRM)
“It still sounds very uncomfortable to hear myself being referred to as a musical actress,” said Ali. “Hopefully after the production finishes in March, I will get used to the idea of viewing myself as a musical actress as well.”
“There was so much love and care put into this production, and I have been just as devoted. I hope to light a fire to the show with my vocals,” she added.
The musical take on “Turandot” is set in an underwater world and tells the tale of Prince Calaf, who falls in love with the cold-hearted Princess Turandot. In order to win her heart in marriage, all potential suitors for the princess must solve a number of riddles, where any wrong answer results in death. The plot quickly takes a twist and soon it is the princess who finds herself fighting for her life.
“Turandot” is being staged daily at the D Cube Arts Center in Seoul until March 13. Ticket prices range from 50,000 won ($40.50) to 110,000 won. For more information, call 1599-1980.
By Julie Jackson (
juliejackson@heraldcorp.com)
