Reviving Korean Theater: Samil-ro Warehouse Theater Becomes the New Sanctuary

South Korea’s Samil-ro Warehouse Theater Welcomed as the New Sanctuary of Korean Theater

The Seoul Samil-ro Warehouse Theater, operated by the Korean Theater Association, is set to become the new sanctuary of Korean theater. This theater, which opened its doors in 1975, has played a pivotal role in the Korean small theater movement.

Overcoming Financial Challenges and Reopening

In 2015, the Samil-ro Warehouse Theater faced financial difficulties and had to temporarily close. However, thanks to the efforts of the Seoul Metropolitan Government and Seoul Foundation for Arts and Culture, the theater reopened its doors in 2018.

Transition to the Korean Theater Association

The Seoul Foundation for Arts and Culture, through its “Open Warehouse” program, shared its operational achievements and concluded six years of entrusted operation. The Samil-ro Warehouse Theater will now be operated by the Korean Theater Association.

Cultural Hub Development

The Korean Theater Association plans to develop the Samil-ro Warehouse Theater into a cultural hub for small theaters, contributing to the advancement of Korean theater. In 2018, the theater was designated as a future cultural heritage of Seoul.

Pioneering Experimental Theater and Supporting International Exposure

The Samil-ro Warehouse Theater has been at the forefront of experimental theater and has served as the birthplace of the small theater movement. Son Jeong-woo, the director of the Korean Theater Association, recognizes the theater’s significance in Korean theater history.

Starting from 2024, the newly reopened Samil-ro Warehouse Theater aims to be a stepping stone for Korean theater works to be introduced internationally. Through international theater festivals and collaborations, it will provide a platform for young theater professionals to expand their reach globally.

Programs and Opportunities

The Samil-ro Warehouse Theater will offer various programs to support theater professionals and engage theater enthusiasts. These programs include planning programs to nurture theater arts and participation programs for the general public to experience theater.

Highlight: 2024 Seoul Monodrama Festival

This year’s highlight program is the “2024 Seoul Monodrama Festival.” Six works have been selected through an open call, and performances will take place at the Samil-ro Warehouse Theater from April 16th to May 26th. The best work will have the opportunity to participate in the Egypt Sharm El-Sheikh International Theatre for Youth Festival (SITFY) and receive financial support.

Supporting Theater’s Growth

The Samil-ro Warehouse Theater aims to provide opportunities for both theater suppliers and consumers to enjoy and contribute to the growth of theater. It will continue to foster creativity, promote the rich heritage of Korean theater, and establish itself as a vital cultural institution in Korea.

Source: Newsis