Appearing in as many as 3 overlapping works... Concerns about musical sensation Choi Jae-rim

≪Choi Ji-ye’s Epilogue≫
Reporter Choi Ji-ye of Ten Asia objectively and keenly points out events that have occurred throughout the entertainment industry. We carefully analyze the ‘glitch’ you missed from a reporter’s perspective.

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Musical fans are divided on the prolific production of musical actor Choi Jae-rim. This is because starting in January, he will appear as the lead in three works simultaneously, including Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, and The Last Five Years. It is unusual even in the global musical industry to appear simultaneously in three works, including a masterpiece, across regions. There are responses from the musical industry and fans that it is good to be able to see good works at the same time, but there are also many concerns about the actors' health and ability to demonstrate their abilities.

As of the 3rd, Choi Jae-rim is currently performing on stage in the musicals ‘Phantom of the Opera’ and ‘Les Miserables’. In both works, he plays the lead role as the Phantom and Jean Valjean, leading the play from the front. 'The Phantom of the Opera' began in Seoul last August and ended in November, and will meet audiences in Daegu for 7 weeks starting on the 22nd. 'Les Miserables' has been running non-stop since last October, starting with performances in Busan and continuing with performances in Seoul, which began on the 30th of last month. Les Miserables is scheduled to end on March 10th.

Just looking at this, it is a difficult schedule for musical actors to handle. Even world-class musical actors usually focus on that work when doing The Phantom of the Opera. Although it already seems crowded with no room to breathe, Choi Jae-rim will be attracting audiences again as Jamie in 'The Last Five Years' from January to April 2024. Between January and February, he will travel between Seoul and Daegu and perform the lead role in three musicals simultaneously.

Choi Jae-rim, who debuted with the musical 'Rent' in 2009, has met audiences through musical performances every year except for 2013 and 2014, when he focused on his studies. Choi Jae-rim, who has built a solid filmography for more than 10 years regardless of the scale and genre of the work, has a wide spectrum and has become an actor who shines on any stage.

Choi Jae-rim, who is in charge of two works at the end of the year, the peak musical season, will perform as many as three works in January 2024. Choi Jae-rim is actively working as a musical actor and is enjoying a happier heyday than ever.

The musical industry and fans scream with happiness at Choi Jae-rim's prolific work. Thanks to his packed schedule, the audience can enjoy various works on stage showing off his skills. In particular, the Phantom and Jean Valjean characters created by Choi Jae-rim are said to be more attractive because of their unique characteristics. Audience expectations for the role of Jamie, which he will play in 'The Last Five Years' in January next year, are already soaring.

However, on the other hand, there are many fans who are concerned about the condition and health of Choi Jae-rim, who has a non-stop schedule. It's good to row when the water comes in, but some say that for a long run, you should at least work so that your work doesn't overlap. In particular, experts point out that musicals require a period of practice to fit the ensemble, and because this time is also required during the work, it is difficult to manage the neck when working on two or more works. The role of ‘Phantom’ in The Phantom of the Opera and the role of ‘Jean Valjean’ in Les Miserables are both roles that require considerable vocal energy. Some in the musical industry point out that even if you take thorough neck care on a daily basis, it is inevitable that you will face difficulties. In particular, Choi Jae-rim's vocalization uses a lot of vocal volume and has a wide range of expression, so it requires a lot of energy.

For example, actress Ok Joo-hyun issued a 'full refund of tickets' to the Busan audience who came to see 'Wicked' due to poor health in 2021, and in April, due to health reasons, she suddenly had to appear in 'Beethoven's Secret Season 2'. and also announced casting changes for 'Red Book'. Ock Joo-hyun, who has been at the top as a musical actress and has provided satisfying performances to many fans, suffered health problems while performing tirelessly on stage, causing disappointment and discomfort to the audience in the aftermath. The lead actor can never be free from the responsibility of preventing the audience who paid high ticket prices from seeing the best performance.

In order to remain at the top for a long time, maintaining an appropriate schedule, managing your health, and resting are essential. Health and physical fitness management are essential virtues for professionals. While I am happy for Choi Jae-rim, who will be on three stages at the same time, I am also concerned. There is a saying that you should protect your health before you lose it. I hope that he, who is enjoying his prime as a musical actor, will maintain an appropriate balance between work and rest. I hope there is no need to repair the barn after losing the cow.

Choi Ji-ye, Ten Asia Reporter wisdomart@tenasia.co.kr