Musical Actor KAI Shares Heartfelt Advice for Aspiring Performers

KAI, a renowned musical actor and university professor, has offered sincere advice to aspiring musical theater performers.

Currently starring in the musical 'Phantom' since October 31, KAI met with reporters in Gangnam, Seoul, on the 12th to share his thoughts on the 10th anniversary of 'Phantom,' a production he has been part of since its premiere.

'Phantom' is a musical adaptation of Gaston Leroux's novel 'The Phantom of the Opera.' Unlike Andrew Lloyd Webber's famous musical, this version was created by playwright Arthur Kopit and composer Maury Yeston. It premiered in 1991 and was first introduced in Korea in 2015. KAI has been involved in every production except for the revival.

In the musical, KAI plays the role of the Phantom, a character with extraordinary musical talent who hides beneath the Paris Opera House due to his disfigured appearance.

Many aspiring musical actors look up to KAI for his prolific career and powerful vocal range. However, KAI advises against trying to emulate him, saying, "I would tell them not to." He humbly adds, "I feel embarrassed whenever I'm referred to as a professor because, although I frequently visit the lab, I don't contribute much."

KAI explains, "I can't and shouldn't guide my friends because of identity issues. If I were a vocal professor, I could provide clear guidance on vocal techniques, but in musical theater, individuality is about 90% of the craft. It's crucial not to compromise that identity."

Instead, KAI shares his past failures with students, offering advice through anecdotes. He encourages them to choose songs that move them personally for auditions rather than simply impressive pieces.

KAI admits, "I may appear polished on the outside, but there are many areas where I struggle and things don't go as planned, though I can't always express it." He tells students, "Focus on mastering the basics and aim to surpass me."

He also advises, "Travel extensively and experience diverse cultures through gestures and interactions."

By Dayeon Jung, TenAsia Reporter light@tenasia.co.kr