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Arirang
아리랑
Official English Title
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SOURCE
novel
SETTING
Korea
BOOK
adaptation
Based on Cho Jung-rae, Arirang
Korean Premiere
2017
Korean Premiere Theatre
Seoul Arts Center, Opera Theatre, Seoul
Further Korean run reference:
https://namu.wiki/w/%EC%95%84%EB%A6%AC%EB%9E%91(%EB%AE%A4%EC%A7%80%EC%BB%AC)
The Musical search cue — “아리랑 뮤지컬”
Summary
Based on Cho Jung-rae’s epic novel, this large-scale musical follows ordinary Koreans enduring dispossession and resistance under Japanese occupation.
Origin & Development
2015, music by Kim Dae-sung, lyrics and direction by Ko Sun-woong, based on the novel Arirang by author Cho Jung-rae. Produced by Seensee Company. Premiered at LG Arts Center, Seoul. Developed as a major commemorative work for the 70th anniversary of Korean liberation. Positioned as Seensee Company’s first large-scale original musical since Dancing Shadows (2007). 2017 – Revival, Seensee Company, Seoul Arts Center Opera House. Recognized as a major commemorative production for the 70th Liberation Anniversary and noted for its large-scale cast and staging.
Partial Synopsis
Set during the Japanese occupation of Korea, the musical follows the lives of ordinary villagers whose fates are shaped by colonial rule, exploitation, migration, and resistance. The narrative centers on Bang Young-geun, who is sold to Hawaii as labor, and Yang Chi-seong, a former servant who becomes a collaborator. Themes include national identity, betrayal, survival, and the endurance of common people. The musical combines sweeping ensemble scenes, traditional Korean elements, and contemporary dramatic staging.
阿里郎
2016
2016-10-12
to
2016-10-13
Country:
China
City:
Shanghai
Production Type:
Reading / Showcase
Language:
Korean
Venue:
Yunfeng Theater
Korean-language excerpts presented as part of the 2016 Korean Original Musical Showcase, supported by the Korean Cultural Center in Shanghai and attended by industry professionals from both countries. Arirang appeared alongside Hero, Mata Hari, Cloud Bread, and Sherlock Holmes in an event aimed at expanding Sino-Korean musical exchange and gauging the market for future licensed productions.
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