"Afterlife Journey: The Book of the Dead Unfolds"

In a captivating blend of dance and metaphysical exploration, the National Dance Company of Korea is set to perform "Book of the Dead" from September 17 to 20 at the Haeoreum Grand Theater in central Seoul. This groundbreaking production, choreographed by the company's artistic director, Kim Jong-deok, marks his first work in this esteemed position.

Kim Jong-deok assumed the role of artistic director in April 2023, and "Book of the Dead" is his inaugural creation in this capacity. The production is inspired by the Tibetan Buddhist scripture "Bardo Thodol," also known as "The Tibetan Book of the Dead."

Act I of "Book of the Dead" depicts the soul's crossing into the afterworld, while Act II revisits memories of life, blending emotions such as joy, grief, regret, and resignation. Act III concludes with repeated gestures symbolizing the continuum between life and death.

For this revival, the staging has been tightened, and the performance duration has been reduced from 75 to 65 minutes. The revival features a rotating cast of five principal dancers, regardless of gender, for the role of the deceased.

Kim Jong-deok translates the metaphysical journey described in "Bardo Thodol" into dance, drawing inspiration from the work "Bardo" by Taiwanese artist Chia-Wei Hsu. The artist's exploration of the pandemic years, combining readings from the "Bardo Thodol" scripture with filmed projections of spirits, has had a significant impact on Kim Jong-deok's vision for "Book of the Dead."

"The Book of the Dead" reminds us that life and death are not separate, and Kim Jong-deok encourages audiences to think about living today well, rather than associating death only with sorrow.

On Thursday, an open rehearsal with commentary from Kim Jong-deok will be held, providing a preview of the work. Don't miss this thought-provoking and moving performance that promises to challenge and inspire.