Since July 10th, Choi Yoo-jung has been captivating audiences with her performance in the musical 'Broadway 42nd Street' (hereafter '42nd Street'). On the afternoon of the 6th, she met with our reporter at the Charlotte Theater in Jamsil, Seoul, to discuss various aspects of the production.
Set against the backdrop of 1930s New York during the Great Depression, 'Broadway 42nd Street' is renowned for its traditional show musical stage setup and tap dance performances. The show is a spectacle of dazzling stages and a large ensemble of vibrant tap dance numbers. Choi Yoo-jung takes on the role of 'Peggy Sawyer', a character who rises from an unknown rookie to a star.
The meeting of Peggy Sawyer and Choi Yoo-jung seemed destined. Reflecting on the musical last September, Choi Yoo-jung recalled, "While rehearsing for 'Hero', I noticed my colleagues moving their feet swiftly. When I asked what they were doing, they said they were learning tap dance. That was my first encounter with tap dance."
"I love dancing and enjoy learning various genres. The moment I saw tap dance, I thought, 'I want to learn that,' and immediately followed my colleagues to the academy."
Demonstrating remarkable initiative, Choi Yoo-jung encountered the audition notice for 'Broadway 42nd Street' just a month after starting tap dance lessons. This serendipitous event ignited her passion for tap dance, leading her to take private lessons in preparation for the audition.
Entering the audition room fully prepared, Choi Yoo-jung was surprised by the warm atmosphere, contrary to her expectations of a cold reception. She described the experience as feeling "invited to a party of wonderful artists who have loved art for a long time," and expressed gratitude for witnessing such a scene.
Choi Yoo-jung candidly shared her feelings from that day during the final audition in front of the judges. "After the last audition, I felt so good. I was so happy to have the opportunity to dance, sing, and act in front of such wonderful artists who have loved art for a long time. I really wanted to see you all again, and I'm so grateful to be able to greet you like this."
Choi Yoo-jung's sincerity resonated with the judges. On her birthday, she received a mysterious envelope while having a meal. She recounted, "Inside the envelope, it said 'Happy Birthday', and when I turned the page, it read 'You've worked hard'. Turning another page, it said 'Let's go together. Congratulations on passing'." This marked the beginning of her extraordinary, perhaps destined, journey with 'Broadway 42nd Street'.
Reporter Da-yeon Jeong, TenAsia light@tenasia.co.kr