Light's Intertwining with Classical Tunes
Seoul is set to welcome a new addition to its summer classical festivals with the arrival of Classic Weekends. Running from August 8 to 24 at the Theatre des Lumieres in Gwangjin-gu, eastern Seoul, this new festival promises to broaden the audience experience by integrating visual and musical elements.
At the helm of Classic Weekends is soprano Hong Hye-ran, who serves as the festival's artistic director. For Hong, the festival is not just a performance series but also a mission to popularize classical music.
The festival presents eight performances, including the upcoming opera La Traviata scheduled for August 2025. This production features direction by Eom Sook-jung, music direction by Jung Tae-yang, and performances by Hong as Violetta, Son Ji-hoon as Alfredo, Lee Dong-hwan as Germont, and a yet-to-be-named mezzo-soprano.
One of the unique features of the Theatre des Lumieres is its immersive light projection shows. For "La Traviata", video projections will replace traditional opera sets, creating an immersive experience that promises to make the audience feel as though they've stepped inside the work itself.
Aside from La Traviata, other performances include the "Going Home Project" with pianist Son Yeol-eum, violinist Svetlin Roussev, and flutist Cho Sung-hyun on August 15. The seven-piece string ensemble, a pianist, and a 15-member chorus will also participate in "La Traviata", which will be performed on August 16, 22, and 24.
The 12-member Cellista Ensemble will perform on August 23, adding another layer of musical diversity to the festival.
Classic Weekends is a new addition to Seoul's summer classical festivals, which includes the Seoul Arts Center International Music Festival and Lotte Concert Hall's Classic Revolution. Tickets start from 18,000 KRW, making it an accessible cultural attraction combining classical arts and innovative visual technology.
Whether you're a classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Classic Weekends promises an unforgettable experience that blends tradition with innovation. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of classical music like never before.
Sources:
- Theatre des Lumieres embraces classical music with immersive light shows
- Classic Weekends announces lineup for its inaugural season
- Hong Hye-ran appointed artistic director of Classic Weekends
- Cast and creative team announced for Classic Weekends' production of La Traviata
During Classic Weekends, a blend of classical music and captivating visual elements will entertain audience members at the Theatre des Lumieres. Hong Hye-ran, the festival's artistic director, is dedicated to promoting classical music and promises an unforgettable immersive experience with performances such as "La Traviata".
