Ari Arari

A while back I spent three weeks in South Korea helping Korean teachers. Watching Ari Arari made me want to book a Korean holiday back there as soon as possible!

Artistic Director Angella Kwon says, “We’ve performed Korean Season shows at WOMAD in the past, and we’ve wanted to be part of the Adelaide Fringe Festival for years … This is very exciting for us, and we hope everyone loves what we present”.

Based on a Korean folk song ‘Arirang’ of more than 600 years ago, Ari Arari tells the story of the enduring bonds of family; it symbolises unity between North and South Korea through song.

Before the show starts there is a brief introduction to the show and a lesson in Korean etiquette for appreciating live theatre.

Featuring a large cast, the production also showcases Korean music using instruments not normally seen in Western orchestras  - the ajaeng, probably the most complex of all the string instruments, the buk (a large drum), Taepyeongso (a wind instrument), the janguu (a type of drum) and cymbals.

The staging is simple but effective - front projections create an ever-changing landscape, simple set pieces slide in and out and most effective of all, a boat that rocks back and forth as though riding the waves.

The costuming ranges from traditional to a more modern approach with sunglasses. The choreography is well drilled, particularly in the men’s numbers, the ‘log’ drumming and the routine involving long staffs that are used as percussion instruments by pounding them on the stage or hitting them with sticks.

There is also plate spinning, a memorable journey by sea, an exciting female dance number with drums, glorious singing - and one act I was waiting for - the Korean ribbon dance. This is performed by a dancer wearing a hat with a long ribbon attached to the top that the dancer rotates as he dances. These ribbons can get very long depending on the space available.

This production is well drilled and rehearsed as evidenced by the obvious enjoyment on the performers’ faces. Their enthusiasm pours off the stage and down the aisles of the Arts Theatre.

Ari Arari is Korean culture at its best with a happy ending. It is a must, if you have never experienced Korean theatre or if you are already a fan!

Barry Hill OAM

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