DanYang’s ‘Mother’ Play Tours Local Villages – 충청타임즈
A traveling theater troupe is bringing live performance to rural communities in North Chungcheong Province, South Korea. From February 3rd to March 31st, the Manjong University Road Theater will present the “Mother” 악극 (a Korean dramatic genre combining song, dance, and spoken dialogue) directly to residents in 16 towns and villages.
Bringing Art to Rural Communities
The performances are specifically designed for residents of 산골 (mountainous) villages, where access to cultural events is often limited, particularly during the agricultural off-season. The theater group will utilize village halls and other community spaces as stages, bringing the performance directly to the people.
A Story of Sacrifice and Hope
The 악극 “Mother” centers on a woman who lost her husband during the Korean War and single-handedly raised her son. The story follows her son as he pursues a singing career in Seoul, facing numerous hardships, while his mother in Danayang anxiously awaits his success. The play is set in the 1960s, aiming to resonate with the experiences of long-time residents.
Director Heo Seong-su explained that the winter months can be particularly isolating in these mountain villages, and he hopes the performances will inject vitality and offer relatable art to the community. He personally wrote and directs the production.
Interactive Performances and Community Engagement
The performances will feature professional musical theater actors, and will also incorporate an element of spontaneity. During each show, the troupe plans to invite a local resident to participate as a “resident actor,” creating a unique and engaging experience for both performers and audience members.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, the theater group will operate a “hotteok truck” – selling the popular Korean pancake – at each performance location, offering a warm treat to attendees.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of the play being performed?
The play being performed is called “Mother” (어머니), an 악극 written and directed by Heo Seong-su.
How many villages will the theater group visit?
The Manjong University Road Theater will visit 16 towns and villages within the region.
What is the time frame for these performances?
The performances will take place between February 3rd and March 31st.
Will this model of bringing performances directly to communities continue beyond this initial run?