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  REVIEWS 2006 - Choon-Hyang: A Love Story of the Far East
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Theatre Seoul
The Patron Company

 

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***
Choon-Hyang: A Love Story of the Far East
Review by Holly Graham, August 2006

Choon-Hyang, direct from Korea, by Theatre Seoul's Youth Musical Company is based on one of the most famous traditional love stories in Korea, A story of fidelity, feminine virtue and love that conquers the boundaries of traditional classes.  Choon-Hyang and her true love Mong-Ryong must overcome treachery and deceit to protect that which means everything to them, their love.

The costumes and make-up are rich and vibrant; the lighting is an ever-changing mixture of yellows, oranges, reds and blues. There is also a very effective video back drop, to add to the set.   The beautiful cast have been carefully directed and use their space well, and the dance routines have clearly been performed again and again in order for it to appear seamless.  It connects even further with the audiences through some British Jokes and a little slapstick/panto-like acting.  The beauty contest scene is bound to make even the most critical, allow themselves a chuckle.

The young actors try hard to pull this show off and take it onto the professional platform.  The voices are aided by professional microphone, which is great for precision and clarity, but not so tasteful when they start to fall in and out of tune as they blast their songs to the back of the auditorium...!

This is a sure winner to take the children to!

 

E4 Udderbelly, Bristo Square (0870 745 3083)
Preview Aug 9-10: 11:50(1hr) £5.00
Aug 11-13, 18-20, 25-28: 11:50(1hr) £11.00(£9.00)
Aug 14-17,21-24: 11:50(1hr) £10.00(£8.00)

 

 
 
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