Daejeon, South Korea – The Daejeon Yeonjeong Korean Traditional Music Center (hereafter referred to as the Music Center) is set to host a series of special performances and events from Friday, May 2nd to Monday, May 5th, to celebrate Family Month and the Children's Day holiday. The program features a diverse lineup of genres, including a family play, a traditional puppet show, a non-verbal musical, and a family opera, with a special tap dance performance scheduled for Children's Day.

On Friday, May 2nd at 7:30 PM KST, the Music Center's small theater will stage the family play "The Story of Ms. Sun-nyeo." This heartwarming play, centered around familial love, has garnered significant acclaim, winning five awards at the National Theater Festival, including the grand prize, playwriting award, and directing award. The production is also notable for its cast, which has included prominent South Korean actors such as Jin Seon-kyu, Choi Su-jung, Sunwoo Yong-nyeo, and Kim Kap-soo. This performance is suitable for audiences aged 12 and above (based on typical Korean age classifications for similar productions).

Saturday, May 3rd will feature two performances of the traditional deolmi (string puppet) play, "Kokdu, Around the World in 80 Days," at 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM KST in the Music Center's main hall. Presented by the nation's only dedicated deolmi puppet theater company, this production reimagines Jules Verne's classic adventure through the unique art form of traditional Korean puppetry, promising an engaging experience for both children and adults. The play is recommended for audiences aged 5 and older.

The weekend continues on Sunday, May 4th with the non-verbal family musical "This is it," showcasing performances at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM KST. This innovative performance blends various digital technologies, including 3D projection mapping, 3D animation laser displays, LED lighting, and dynamic street dance, creating a visually and aurally captivating experience for viewers aged 5 and above.

Children's Day, Monday, May 5th, will be celebrated with a family opera based on the classic Korean folktale "Heungbu and Nolbu." Performances are scheduled for 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM KST. This production will feature opera singers and a choir performing lively arias, accompanied by a harmonious blend of piano and traditional Korean musical instruments, bridging the gap between classical and traditional music. It is suitable for audiences aged 5 and older.

Adding to the festive atmosphere of Children's Day, a special tap dance performance by renowned tap dancers Cho Sung-ho and Park Ji-hye will take place at 1:00 PM KST in the Music Center's lobby. Their performance promises a unique artistic experience, combining the visual artistry of dance with the rhythmic complexity of musical instruments.

Yoo Han-joon, Director of the Music Center, expressed his hopes for the event, stating, "We have prepared these special performances for Family Month and Children's Day with the hope that they will create cherished memories for all families. We look forward to welcoming many citizens to the Music Center to enjoy these diverse and engaging programs together."

Ticket reservations for all performances can be made through the Daejeon Yeonjeong Korean Traditional Music Center website (www.daejeon.go.kr/kmusic) and Interpark Ticket (ticket.interpark.com). For further inquiries, please contact the Music Center's main telephone line at 042-270-8500.

Additional Information and Context:

To enrich the news report, here's some supplementary information gathered from online sources about the Daejeon Yeonjeong Korean Traditional Music Center and the significance of Family Month and Children's Day in South Korea:

Daejeon Yeonjeong Korean Traditional Music Center's Role: The Music Center plays a vital role in preserving and promoting traditional Korean music and performing arts in the Daejeon region. It regularly hosts a variety of performances, educational programs, and cultural events aimed at engaging the local community and fostering appreciation for Korea's rich artistic heritage. Their efforts extend to both preserving classical forms and encouraging contemporary interpretations of traditional arts.
Significance of Family Month (May): In South Korea, May is officially designated as Family Month, with various days dedicated to celebrating family bonds. Children's Day (May 5th) is a national holiday where parents often take their children on outings and participate in special events. Parents' Day (May 8th) and Teacher's Day (May 15th) also fall within this month, highlighting the importance of familial and community relationships. The Music Center's special performances align perfectly with this cultural emphasis on family togetherness and celebration.
Traditional Korean Puppet Theater (Deolmi): Deolmi puppet theater is a unique and historically significant form of Korean traditional performance. The puppets are controlled by strings, and the performances often incorporate music, song, and storytelling. The preservation and presentation of this art form by specialized groups like the one performing "Kokdu, Around the World in 80 Days" are crucial for maintaining Korea's cultural heritage.
Fusion Performances: The inclusion of a non-verbal musical like "This is it" demonstrates the Music Center's commitment to showcasing the evolving landscape of performing arts. By integrating modern digital technologies with performance, they aim to attract a wider and more diverse audience, particularly younger generations.
Family Opera and Accessibility: Presenting a well-known folktale like "Heungbu and Nolbu" in an operatic format, while incorporating traditional Korean musical elements, offers a unique and accessible way for families to experience opera. This approach can help demystify the genre and make it more appealing to a broader audience, including children.

The Importance of Children's Day Celebrations: Children's Day in South Korea is a highly anticipated holiday filled with activities and events designed to celebrate and honor children. The Music Center's inclusion of a special tap dance performance on this day adds an extra layer of excitement and entertainment for young attendees.
By providing a diverse program that caters to different age groups and artistic tastes, the Daejeon Yeonjeong Korean Traditional Music Center is contributing significantly to the cultural vibrancy of the region and offering families meaningful opportunities to spend quality time together during the special month of May. The combination of traditional and contemporary performances underscores the center's commitment to both preserving heritage and embracing innovation in the performing arts.