The National Changgeuk Company of Korea, The National Dance Company of Korea, and The National Orchestra of Korea recreates a modern fusion of LEAR, expanding on poetical expression of creativity though music, dance & drama, entailing traditional sounds of theatrically rich & immersive storytelling, strongly anchored in Korean culture.

The creative team includes Director and Choreographer Jung Young-doo, Playwright, after Shakespeare Pai Sam-shik; with Lee Tae-sup’s as set designer creating an extraordinary level of awe reenacting an underworld of a vibrant watery abyss on the stage channeling ripple effects of energetic portals, projecting a universal power of humanity in the face of mother earth’s nature. Incorporating water that filled the stage was effective due to water shifts & intense bodily movement, which increased in great depth throughout.

The themes explored in Lear is life, family, relationships, power & trust. King Lear played by Kim Jun-su speaks volumes of how life is not linear, we deeply experience pain, distance, bondage, mental breakdowns, reconciliation & regret. Both Lear’s character and relationships especially with his daughter Cordelia, played by Min Eun-kyung  resonates deeply with us, where you inevitably reflect on the vulnerability & moments of pride that individuals allow to either make or break their dignity.

One of the effective elements within this production is the feature of Pansori (traditional Korean folk opera) with musical scores composed by Han Seung-seok, with additional music written by K-Pop producer Jung Jae-il (Parasite, Squid Game). Led by Pansori idol Kim Jun-su as Lear, additionally featuring a live orchestra, who were doing their magic in the wings; perfectly enriching moments of tension, harmony, serenity and electrical charges from start to finish.

This international premiere of Lear is enmeshed with exceptional vocal mastery, offering an unforgettable experience of a version of Shakespeare that is both refreshing and expansive with Korean aesthetics.