Renowned actors such as Kim Seon-ho, Joo Jong-hyuk, Geum Sae-rok, Moon Geun-young, Lee Hyun-woo, Jin Seo-yeon, and Girls' Generation's Kwon Yuri are stepping onto the theater stage. Adding to this trend, Lee Seo-jin, Go Ah-sung, and Shim Eun-kyung have announced their upcoming theater debuts. Notably, Lee Seo-jin and Go Ah-sung will appear in 'Uncle Vanya' this May, while Shim Eun-kyung will take on 'Banya Ajae'. The fact that actors with over 20 years of experience are choosing theater underscores the significance of this shift.
The simultaneous occurrence of returns and debuts is another notable aspect. Moon Geun-young has returned to the stage after nine years with 'Orphans', and Kim Seon-ho has reunited with theater fans after four years with 'Secret Passage'. Joo Jong-hyuk and Geum Sae-rok are gaining stage experience alongside veteran actor Shin Goo in 'French Safe'.
The reasons actors are choosing theater are clear. The most significant allure is the 'proximity'. Unlike screen media, which relies on cameras, theater allows for direct interaction and emotional exchange with the audience. The unique characteristic of each performance being different, even with the same script, presents a new challenge and attraction for actors.
However, a more fundamental reason lies in the changing content market. With the expansion of OTT platforms, the number of productions has increased, but competition among actors has intensified. In an environment where differentiation is challenging, theater emerges as a domain offering an 'irreplaceable experience'. The combination of unedited acting, immediate audience feedback, and the live nature of theater provides actors with a new competitive edge.
This trend is also bringing changes to the theater industry. The influx of star actors has a positive effect by expanding the audience base and increasing box office potential. Last year, Park Jung-min and Jeon Do-yeon proved this by selling out performances of 'Life of Pi' and 'The Cherry Orchard', respectively.
However, concerns are not absent. If star-centric casting becomes entrenched, it could lead to a structure that relies more on 'name value' than the quality of the production. The increased production costs and actor fees, along with reduced opportunities for new actors, are also pointed out as realistic issues.
Perspectives within the performance industry are divided. A theater industry insider told TenAsia, "While theater used to be a gateway for new actors, it now functions as a platform for established actors to expand their careers. The influx of star actors helps expand the audience, but in the long run, there needs to be consideration of the industry's structural issues."
Ultimately, this trend carries both opportunities and risks. Whether it will serve as a catalyst for expanding the theater industry or exacerbate polarization depends on future choices.
By Da-yeon Jeong, TenAsia Reporter light@tenasia.co.kr