London Korean Links

Covering things Korean in London and beyond since 2006

Independent Korean performances at Edinburgh Fringe

My recent post on Korean events at the Edinburgh Fringe seriously undersold the Korean involvement there. I was simply reproducing the publicity of one particular organisation – Korea@fringe. But that organisation is only responsible for the six acts I mentioned in my previous post. Thanks to Colin Bartlett for pointing this out. So here is, as far as I am aware, a complete list of the Korean acts at the Fringe (derived simply by searching the Fringe website for the keyword “Korea”).

Angel and Woodcutter

Award-winning physical theatre. An innovative infusion of traditional and contemporary style. Comedic but utterly compelling. Amidst war and desperation blooms a beautiful Korean folk tale that speaks of hope. ‘Clearly masters of their craft … beautiful’ Scotsman. www.train3.com

An exploration of the notions of life and death through the traditional music and dance of Korea. Representation of humanity through one nation’s history and tradition. [NB website suggests this has been cancelled]

Ballet meets break-dance head on in this extreme dance musical masterpiece from one of Korea’s leading exponents of new wave hip-hop dance theatre. A Ballerina finds her freedom in this explosive street dance spectacle. www.bisabal.com

Theatre Seoul’s Youth Musical Company presents Korea’s most adored traditional love story. Lovers Choon-Hyang and Mong-Ryong must overcome treachery and deceit, defending what’s most important to them – each other. ‘Brimming with enthusiasm … ensemble moments are faultless’ Scotsman. www.smusical.com

The Daejeon Civic Youth Choir with heavenly voices and varied repertoire, Korea offering their angelic voices full of hopes and dreams. Deokkyu Kim – artistic director and conductor. www.dcyc.or.kr

Join Dulsori for an interactive workshop exploring the traditional arts of the Korean nation including percussion, song, dance and games. All equipment is provided. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. www.dulsori.com

New international physical theatre. Isolated at a remote post office, a robbery is foiled when the burglar discovers a dead man’s body. Fearing a murder charge, he must find the real killer before time runs out. www.flowerlion.com

  • Object and Particle – Uri Productions in association with J E L Dance Company, 19-27 August, Venue C

Contemporary dance performance, created by a Korean choreographer and performed by Czech dancers, combining the spirit of Asian Buddhism and modernity of European dance. This evocative new production explores the question of a finite human spirit. www.CtheFestival.com

Travel home to Korea with Mina in this intimate tale of terrible truths and uncovered secrets. At her father’s funeral she faces the fresh reality of her family in this comedic and charismatic production. ‘Evocative, striking, beautiful – a jewel’ Age, Melbourne. www.CtheFestival.com

  • Puppet – Daegu City Modern Dance Company, 3-10 August, Zoo Southside

A popular and extraordinary performance, filled with passion! Active and lively, featuring live music, and dramatic, contemporary dance! The Dae-gu City Company’s first ever performance outside Korea offers a hopeful message to fill the heart of modern people. www.artcenter.daegu.go.kr

And a recap of the 6 acts from Korea@fringe:

I make that 16 events, plus the four films.

And I’m not going to be able to go to any of these. Does anyone want to be the official LKL Edinburgh Fringe correspondent?