As we walk into the venue and start finding our seats, some of the cast members are walking around the theatre, warmly greeting everyone. For the past decade, Korean culture has taken the world by storm with its K-pop, K-dramas, beauty products and food exports. This soft power is something many people are familiar with and it truly deserves to be experienced live.
An energetic and charismatic display of artistry
Two screens frame the stage, with a central projection displaying text that outlines the story about to unfold. Reading through the introduction provides useful context for a more enjoyable experience. ARI: The Spirit of Korea tells the story of a family who is separated and ultimately reunited.
The performance is structured in five chapters. As the cast members continue to mingle with the audience, a bell rings, prompting them to cheer and rush to the stage for the opening scene—a joyous and colourful wedding celebration. You don’t need to understand Korean to follow the play, as the screens continuously project the actors’ lines in English throughout the performance.
Set against the backdrop of the Joseon era, this show is a true celebration of Korean culture and heritage. The costumes reflect traditional attire, such as the hanbok, and the production explores a range of experiences — from the everyday lives of the rural community, depicted with simpler clothing, to the vibrant metropolis of Seoul, highlighted with glitz, glamour, and intricate costumes.
The story revolves around a father who leaves his family in search of work in the city, only to become lost in the hustle and bustle. When he departs, he leaves behind his mother, wife, and newborn daughter, A-Ri. Twelve years later, his daughter sets out on a quest to find him. It is a poignant and sometimes dramatic tale of homecomings and the importance of cherishing what truly matters in life. Themes of love, loss, preservation, and honouring one’s ancestry are at the heart of the narrative. The performance is further enhanced by traditional dance, singing, and drumming, showcasing an energetic and charismatic display of artistry.
The stage design is mesmerising, with projections that bring to life a range of settings, from a forest to the sea. ARI: The Spirit of Korea is a celebration of life, telling a story that touches on universal themes relatable to everyone.
