SM does Musical

Major talent agency, SM Entertainment announced recently the establishment of an affiliate that will focus on musicals - and they’re bringing Super Junior along for the ride.

With former comedian and singer Pyo In Bong taking the helm as co-CEO of SM Art Company (as the affiliate is called) will pursue businesses in organizing and creating diverse performances including musicals, as well as operating theaters, SM Entertainment officials said.

“With the artists and global networking that SM Entertainment has, along with our well-organized performance producing system, SM Art Company plans to become one of the best performance entertainment businesses in Asia,” Pyo said at the Press Conference in Seoul on May 28.

For their first project, SM Art Company will stage a Korean version of the musical “Xanadu,” a Broadway musical based on the 80’s movie of the same title starring Olivia Newton John.

The musical will feature two members of Super Junior, one of Korea’s most popular boy bands, Kang In and Hee Chul - in the role of Sonny.

“Since it is our musical debut, we will do our best not to bring inconvenience to other talented actors,” the singers said. “We also hope that we could bring more young people to our musical and ultimately to theater.”

“Xanadu” is a story about Kira, the muse of music who comes to the human world and falls in love with artist-wannabe Sonny while giving him inspiration. Kira creates a roller-skating rink where music, dance and sports can all be enjoyed.

The musical is to feature songs such as “Xanadu,” “Magic”, and “Suddenly” from the original movie.

Pyo said since producing and creating content has become the most important thing for entertainment businesses these days, the company will not only to bring licensed musicals, but also put efforts into creating their own. But the CEO did not mention any specific piece or ideas on future plans.

“Xanadu” is to be staged from September 9 through November 23 at Doosan Art Center located in Yeonji-dong, Northern Seoul.

Original Article Input: “The Korea Herald”, By: Koh Young Ah, news.naver.com 2008-05-30 10:01
Edited English Translations: ELF Philippines
Edited Photograph Provision: ELF Philippines
Credits: Asianfanatics + Sinfath.net