National Theater, Seoul

Five years following the Second World War, the Korean government established the National Theater in Seoul to promote nationalistic theater and exchange theatrical art with foreign counterparts. The Korean War saw the moving of this promising theater to Taegu. But it returned to its original home grounds in Seoul soon after the end of the war. The National Theater in Seoul has a definite place for itself as the first national theater in the whole of Asia. The National Theater, Seoul has been a leading performance stage ever since its establishment. Its rich traditional and classical performances continue to attract theater lovers from all round the world even today, almost 57 years after its establishment.

Keeping in pace with the advancements of the 21st Century, the National Theater underwent a visible makeover in its appearance as well as in its administration. "Introduction of a Business Mindset" and "Enhancing Artistic Quality" were the two major administrative changes. Then came the renovation of the Main Hall, the Cultural Plaza and the making of the Rooftop Stage. The National Theater, Seoul boasts of a firm establishment of the cultural identity of the Korean people, improvement of artistic quality and patron service to affirm the best "national" performance hall status, enhancement of professionalism of their employees and performers, up gradation of venues, and elevation of performance culture.

The National Theater is mainly comprised of four resident companies.
  -   The National Drama Company-it is the mecca for Korean dramatic arts, representing the history of Korean drama and performing mainly Korean classics and world masterpieces.

  -   The National Changgeuk Company-Established in 1962, it is creating a musical drama based on the traditional pansori singing.

  -   The National Dance Company-its performance varies from traditional Korean dance to contemporary dance and also takes part in international cultural exchanges.

  -   The National Orchestra-Established in 1995, it is an orchestra nurturing instruments from both the court and folk traditions.

Festivals for the public, regional tours, and arts education are also supported by this theater. This year the National Theatre, Seoul will be hosting the International Youth Arts Festival in May-June and the World National Theater Exchange Festival in September-October, thus paving its way for international cultural exchange and its establishment as a National Theater in the World.

National Theater, Seoul has unwaveringly established itself as a perfect holiday and recreation hangout for all ages. Its one-stop rental of equipment and supplies, credit card approval, and digitized services and a newly decorated playroom for children add to its favorable image among the people. AsiaRooms.com is one of the best places to find out about the National Theater, Seoul.