Korean National Ballet's reimagined "Le Corsaire" brings a contemporary twist to a classical favorite as part of diplomatic events in Europe

A scene from the ballet "Le Corsaire" (Korean National Ballet)

The Korean National Ballet is taking their rechoreographed version of the classical ballet "Le Corsaire" on tour to Switzerland and Germany in May. The performances are part of commemorative events celebrating diplomatic relations between Korea and the two countries, with Switzerland marking the 60th anniversary and Germany the 140th anniversary. The company will perform at the Theatre de Beaulieu in Lausanne, Switzerland, on May 8 and at the Hessian State Theatre of Wiesbaden in Germany on May 11-12.

"Le Corsaire" is a three-act ballet based on Lord Byron's poem of the same title and was choreographed by Russian ballet master Marius Petipa. The story revolves around a dashing pirate named Conrad and his crew on a mission to rescue his love, Medora, who is held captive as a slave. The Korean National Ballet's version, which premiered in 2020, was rechoreographed by the company's soloist-choreographer Song Jung-bin. Song adapted the three acts into a two-act production and changed the characters and setting to reflect a contemporary perspective. 

▲ A scene from the ballet "Le Corsaire" (Korean National Ballet)

Medora is portrayed as a beautiful island girl instead of a slave, and Gulnara, originally depicted as a harem slave, is transformed into a high priestess. Song's version has a happy ending, in contrast to Petipa's tragic ending with a shipwreck. Medora and Conrad overcome hardships and set off on a new adventure.

"I believe maintaining the essence of classical choreography while reflecting contemporary changes is KNB’s unique style and strength," said Song during an interview in early April, where he introduced his latest version of "Don Quixote." Kang Sue-jin, the artistic director of KNB, added that having their own repertoire is essential, and the invitation from Germany shows that the direction KNB is pursuing is not in vain. They wanted a classical piece that would resonate with a universal audience, and "Le Corsaire" fit the bill.

The Korean National Ballet is thrilled to be participating in the 2023 International May Festival, one of the most distinguished international theater festivals in Germany. The company's performances showcase their dedication to classical ballet while adapting it to reflect contemporary perspectives. The tour marks a significant milestone in cultural exchange between Korea and Europe, and the Korean National Ballet hopes to continue fostering this exchange through their art.

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