Played to a packed house, Ari: The Spirt of Korea, is a spectacular piece of theatre. Featuring a large cast, it is bright, colourful, energetic and entertaining. The performers start off in the audience and we are encouraged to join in the fun.
Based on a 600-year-old folk song Arirang, this show tells the story of a carpenter who goes off to earn his fortune, is tempted into gambling while away and then due to an accident, forgets who he is. It is only when his daughter – a baby when he left but full of love and longing for the father she has never met – manages to track him down, that the memory of who he was returns. The performers are all very talented and as a cast expertly take us into the world of old Korea with charm.
The majority of the show is in Korean which is joyous to hear (any k-drama fans in the audience will feel at home). Subtitles on videos at either side of the stage help to translate the text that is being performed on stage, although this is not always necessary, as the performers give enough flavour in their storytelling to help us understand the gist of what is going on. For those who do not like to read subtitles, simply watching and listening to the performance will be enough to understand the story. The musical elements of this show are beautifully executed and the timing of the dance numbers is on point. The drumming section in particular is stirring, as the beat rumbles through the audience: we feel this in our bodies.
A show for all the family, it brings to life the heritage of Korea, reflecting their world-renowned cultural artistry and reminds us that the language of theatre is universal. With a nod to current pop culture, there is something for everything in this show and is a definite must see.
Presented as part of the Korean Season.
Show Time: 13:30
Assembly Hall
11-25 Aug (not 12,19)
Ticket prices: 11, 16-18, 23-25 Aug £18 (£17); 13-15, 20-22 Aug £16 (£15)
https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/ari-the-spirit-of-korea
Accessible entry: There are 48 steps from the main entrance, however there is separate level access entrance via a rear door on Lawnmarket. This is adjacent to the Johnston Terrace roundabout, and is next to the Ensign Ewart which is at 521 Lawnmarket, EH1 2PE. Please ring doorbell for entry. Wheelchair access type: Level Access. Stairs: 20+. Audio Enhancement System. Wheelchair Accessible Toilets. Age: 5+ (Guideline.) Babes in arms policy: Babies do not require a ticket. Policy applies to: Children under 18 months.