About the performance
Shakespeare's The Tempest is transported to 5th century Korea in this dramatic re imagining and adaptation of his final and most poetic play. King Zilzi, immersed in his study of Taoist magic, leaves the care of his kingdom in the hands of King Zabi. While he is away, Zabi takes control and, with the help of Zilzi's brother, Soji, banishes him from his lands.
Inspired by a true story from the Korean Chronicles of the Three Kingdoms, Tae-Suk Oh's The Tempest blends extraordinary historical fact with Shakespearean fiction, infusing both with elements of traditional Korean culture and folklore. Prospero's book of magic transforms into a multi-coloured magical fan, Caliban becomes Ssangdua - a two-headed monster - and Ariel becomes Zewoong, a Shaman priestess made of straw and the protector and dispeller of evil spirits.
With music played on traditional Korean instruments and incorporating richly layered costumes, this fantastical production explores the limitations and possibilities of human nature through the acts of betrayal, love, forgiveness and eventual reconciliation.
