![Kim So-wol’s Poetry Transformed into Musical: Can Yesterday’s Verses Inspire Tomorrow’s Melodies? [MK현장]](https://i0.wp.com/pimg.mk.co.kr/news/cms/202501/16/news-p.v1.20250116.7715ec2538ba4788abcb3dc8f28fd6b7_R.png?fit=%2C&ssl=1 "Kim So-wol’s Poetry Transformed into Musical: Can Yesterday’s Verses Inspire Tomorrow’s Melodies? [MK현장]")
Can Yesterday’s Poetry Become Tomorrow’s Song? A Musical Revival of Kim So-wol’s Legacy
The stage is set, the lights are dimmed, and the echoes of history resonate through the halls of Sogang University’s Mary Hall Grand Theater in Mapo-gu, Seoul. The original musical ‘Can Yesterday’s Poetry Become Tomorrow’s Song?’, inspired by the timeless works of poet Kim So-wol, is captivating audiences with its poignant blend of poetry, music, and history.
On the afternoon of January 16th, a press call was held too showcase the musical’s highlights, attended by director Kang-seon Lee, composer Yul-gu Lee, and the talented cast. The event offered a glimpse into a production that seamlessly weaves Kim So-wol’s poetry into a narrative of resilience and patriotism during the japanese colonial period.
A Journey Through History and Poetry
The musical is based on ‘Red Azalea’ by Lee Seong-jun, a story recognized for its excellence by the korea Creative Content Agency. It tells the tale of joseon independence fighters who risked their lives to protect their language and culture. Director Kang-seon Lee emphasized the significance of the title, stating, “It contains memories of history and time. In some ways, it is always remembered, and sometimes it is distorted. So I think we spend time trying to find the truth.”
This marks the first time kim So-wol’s poetry has been adapted into a musical. His works, including ‘Transcendence,’ ‘Azalea Flower,’ and ‘Sano Ramen,’ are used as lyrics to express the aspirations of the independence movement and the pain of a nation under colonial rule. “Wasn’t there an independence movement that put the spirit into words and writing,rather than just carrying guns? I thought about expressing it well through poet Kim So-wol’s poetry,” Lee explained.
The Challenge of Turning Poetry into Song
Composer Lee Yul-gu shared the complexities of adapting poetry into musical theater. “It wasn’t easy to create a song using the poetS words in a musical. The genre of musical has a narrative development and character characteristics, but incorporating poetry into it was not easy,” he said. “I remember composing while practicing with the actors, looking up poetic words again, finding out their meaning, and studying them.”
A Stellar Cast Brings the Story to Life
The musical features a dynamic cast, including Seong Tae-jun as Lee Jeong-ik, Han Su-rim as Sa Eon-hee, and Kim Woo-hyuk as Park Woo-hyuk. Each actor embodies the spirit of their characters, bringing depth and emotion to the stage.
Don’t Miss This Theatrical Masterpiece
‘Can Yesterday’s Poetry Become Tomorrow’s Song?’ will be performed at Sogang university’s mary Hall Grand Theater until January 26th. This production is not just a musical; it’s a tribute to the enduring power of poetry and the unyielding spirit of those who fought for freedom.
| Key Details | Facts |
|——————|——————|
| Title | Can Yesterday’s Poetry Become Tomorrow’s Song? |
| Inspiration | Poetry of Kim So-wol |
| Based On | Red Azalea by Lee Seong-jun |
| Director | Kang-seon Lee |
| Composer | Yul-gu Lee |
| Venue | Sogang University’s Mary hall Grand theater |
| Run Dates | Until January 26th |
Experience the magic of Kim So-wol’s poetry transformed into song, and witness a story that bridges the past and the present. Book your tickets now and be part of this unforgettable journey.
