2017
Farinelli
Farinelli (파리넬리) is a Korean original large-scale musical depicting the life of the 18th-century castrato opera singer Farinelli, notable for its fusion of operatic vocals and musical theatre. Its 2017 Hong Kong appearance formed part of Korea’s strategic K-Musical Roadshow, positioning the work for international markets through showcase presentation rather than licensed export.
English:
Farinelli
Korean:
파리넬리
Country: Hong Kong | Language: Korean
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ORIGIN
Farinelli was produced by HJ Culture and premiered in January 2015 following its selection for Korea’s Creative Musical Development Program. The musical debuted at the Arko Arts Theater Grand Theater in Daehangno, presenting a rare large-cast, orchestra-driven production centered on operatic performance. Conceived as a grand-scale original musical, it later expanded its format through readings and spin-off presentations exploring the relationship between Farinelli and his brother Riccardo.
STORY
Set in 18th-century Europe, the musical follows Carlo Broschi, known to history as Farinelli, a castrato whose extraordinary voice brings him fame across Italy and beyond. Guided and controlled by his brother Riccardo, Farinelli rises to prominence while struggling with artistic autonomy, identity, and emotional isolation. The narrative explores the cost of artistic genius, the tension between love and exploitation, and the loss embedded in fame. Musically, the work blends original musical numbers with operatic aesthetics, emphasizing vocal virtuosity and emotional intensity.
POSTER COLLECTION
Poster images are shown for documentation only. All rights belong to the original creators and producers.
KOREAN RUNS
2015 – Premiere, produced by HJ Culture
Following its initial run, Farinelli returned for an encore engagement in 2015 and a full revival in 2016, establishing itself as a notable large-theater original musical. In 2018, a small-theater reading version focusing on Farinelli and Riccardo was presented. The work later reappeared through a nationwide Korean tour in 2023, marking its continued relevance and performance history.
GLOBAL STAGINGS & ADAPTATIONS
China, 2015
Promotional showcase – Korea Brand & Hallyu Product Expo (KBEE)
In August 2015, Farinelli participated in showcase performances in Shanghai as part of KBEE 2015, presenting highlight numbers to Chinese presenters and cultural officials. These performances aimed to assess market interest and promote Korean original musicals within the Chinese cultural industry. While not a full commercial run, the event marked an early step in positioning the work for potential Chinese market entry.
Hong Kong, 2017
Cultural exchange showcase – K-Musical Roadshow presentation
Farinelli was presented on November 28–29, 2017 at Y Theatre, Youth Square in Hong Kong as part of the 2017 K-Musical Roadshow. Organized by the Korea Arts Management Service with support from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Korean Cultural Office in Hong Kong, the showcase introduced six Korean original musicals to Asian industry professionals. Farinelli’s appearance was non-commercial and functioned as an export-oriented presentation rather than a licensed local production.
REFERENCES
Namu Wiki – Korean production history and synopsis
https://namu.wiki/w/%ED%8C%8C%EB%A6%AC%EB%84%AC%EB%A6%AC(%EB%AE%A4%EC%A7%80%EC%BB%AC)
The Power of Hallyu That Echoed Through Shanghai
https://www.etoday.co.kr/news/view/1189484
Within News – 2017 K-Musical Roadshow report
http://withinnews.co.kr/news/view.html?category=126&no=13757§ion=9
YTN World – K-Musical Roadshow coverage in Hong Kong
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JCsNNAbqwrI
Sohu – 2017 K-Musical Roadshow coverage
https://www.sohu.com/a/206669597_805907
Naeway News – Farinelli export and showcase reporting
