Classic modern theater, dance from Mongolia to Moldova

“Scent of Spring” by the National Dance Company of Korea. Provided by the organizer

Too much choice can only be a good thing, which is why over the next few weeks, the National Theater of Korea is offering audiences a selection of performing arts, from traditional plays to modern dance.

The International Festival of National Theaters features 20 theatrical performances from nine countries - Korea, Norway, France, Moldova, Russia, China, Thailand, Germany and Mongolia.

“The festival brings national performances from different cultures that represent the international arts scene,” said Oh Ji-won from the National Theater of Korea. “At the same time, it promotes Korean performances abroad.”

Four Korean organizations are taking part this year: The National Orchestra of Korea, The National Dance Company of Korea, The National Drama Company of Korea and The National Changgeuk Company of Korea.

A notable local performance is “Terrorist Hamlet” by the National Drama Company of Korea. The play is German director Jens-Daniel Herzog’s modern reinterpretation of William Shakespeare’s classic tragedy. Terrorist Hamlet runs today through Sept. 26.

Russia’s State Academic Maly Theater will be performing one of Anton Chekhov’s major plays, “Three Sisters,” directed by Yuri Solomin. The story, is about the decline of the privileged classes at the end of the 19th century. The play runs from Sept. 25 to 27.

“Raise the Red Lantern,” performed by the National Ballet of China and directed by filmmaker Zhang Yimou, is another highlight, fusing Oriental and modern elements. It will be staged from Oct. 29 to 30 as the festival’s closing performance.

“The festival should charm many audiences with different theatrical performances, like last year,” Oh said.

Over 30,000 people attended last year’s inaugural festival, with 81 percent of seats filled.

Performances will be at various venues in Seoul, including the Haeoreum Theater and the Daloreum Theater, both in Jangchung-dong, central Seoul. All performances will be in their original language. English and Korean subtitles will be provided. For more information, call (02) 2280-4114 or visit www.wfnt.kr.

By Lee Eun-joo Staff Reporter [ngie@joongang.co.kr]