National Theater Company's play 'The Tempest' will be performed at the Seongnam Arts Center Opera House on November 17-18.
According to the Seongnam Cultural Foundation on September 9, 'The Tempest' is based on William Shakespeare's final work, 'The Tempest,' which has undergone translation and reconfiguration for this presentation.
The original story begins with Duke Prospero of Milan, who is cast out to sea with his daughter after being usurped by his brother. They spend 12 years on a deserted island.
When given the chance to take revenge on those who betrayed him, Prospero chooses forgiveness and reconciliation instead.
This production alters key characters and settings from the original. Prospero is reimagined as a female character named 'Prospera,' and King Alonso of Naples is transformed into 'Alonza,' transcending gender and temporal boundaries in the reinterpretation.
The play explores themes of power, desire, love, and forgiveness, examining the choices individuals face in the wake of betrayal and hurt.
Directed by Park Jeong-hee, the artistic director of the National Theater Company, the translation and adaptation were handled by Ma Jeong-hwa. The stage design is by Yeosindong.
The production minimizes elaborate technical effects, focusing instead on the actors' performances, language, and the audience's imagination. It aims to convey the magical and fantastical atmosphere inherent in the original work through scenes that blur the lines between reality and fantasy.
Actress Seo Yi-sook will portray Prospera, joined on stage by Hwang Seon-hwa, Lee Kyung-min, Koo Do-kyun, Gong Ji-soo, Lee Seung-joo, Lee So-yul, Kim Soo-hyun, Lee Kang-ho, Lim Chae-hyun, Kim Eun-woo, and Ha Jae-seong.
Ahead of the performances, public interest continues to grow.
Many are particularly intrigued by the modern reinterpretation of Shakespeare's classic and the story of Prospera as a female character.
One citizen remarked, “I know the original work of Shakespeare, but I’m curious about how the story will unfold with the changed character settings.”
Another citizen noted, “Choosing forgiveness in a situation where one could seek revenge seems like a thought-provoking theme for people today. I’m looking forward to a performance that focuses on the actors' performances and dialogue.”
Meanwhile, a foundation official added, “Through this performance, we hope the audience can experience Shakespeare's work from a new perspective.”
* This article has been translated by AI.
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