Choreography: Jae-duk Kim
Darkness Poomba, originally inspired by a Korea’s ancient song “Poomba,” transforms this traditional musical rhythm into a dynamic, sophisticated and modern dance movement for contemporary audiences. Traditionally “Poomba” is a rhythm which ordinary people used to use to express their sorrows. All male dancers are constantly revealing people’s deep down emotions of resentment and sorrow (which are specifically related to “한 Han” in Korean culture) through strong movements and singing, as if wishing to reveal and throw away all these dark emotions and fear. Combining rapid movements by 7 male dancers together with the exhilarating live music by a rock band (guitar, bass, and drums) and a Korean traditional vocalist, Darkness Poomba will provide audiences with a rare opportunity to experience both the beauty of Korean traditional arts as well as the vitality of contemporary dance on one stage.
“It seems that the piece was choreographed to the limit of speed and dynamics. As modern and fast movements on stage match the beat to the poomba music, those moments of awkwardness and exquisiteness knocked my knees together.”
Independent Dance Website
Modern Table, a Korea’s contemporary dance company founded by Jae-duk Kim who is one of the leading choreographers in Korea, has received international acclaim for its powerful performance style and use of thrilling live music. It has been actively touring the world-renowned venues and festivals, such as The Place (London, UK), Chekhov International Theatre Festival (Russia) and Chaillot National Theatre (Paris, France), among others.
Credits
Choreographed by Jae-duk Kim
Lyrics and composed by Jae-duk Kim
Performed by Modern Table
Korean Traditional Vocal – Jeong Seung-joon
Lightning Designer – Lee Jang-han
Presented by Archa Theatre, Korean Cultural Center in Budapest
Supported by 2017 Traveling Korean Arts (Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Korea Arts Management Service)
