Review: FLASHDANCE at Sejong Center For Performing Arts, Take the Leap!

"She's a maniac, a maniac, on the floor. And she's dancing like she's never before," as the song echoed throughout the speakers, the audience held their breath as their eyes followed the dynamic movements of the dancer. As the song reached its climax, so did the dancer, who now sat on a chair and with a pull of a handle, water fell on her, enacting the iconic scene of FLASHDANCE. After receiving much love and attention at the 2018 DIMF(Daegu International Musical Festival), FLASHDANCE came back for its first tour in Korea. Starting from the first performance in Seoul on January 18, the company would be performing in 5 different cities throughout Korea until March 24th.

Based on the 1983 musical film Flashdance, FLASHDANCE the Musical had its world premiere in 2008, which eventually led to a West End run. Set in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, FLASHDANCE introduces the life of Alex Owens, an 18-year-old who is a steelworker at day and a flash dancer at night. She dreams of attending Shipley Dance Academy, a prestigious school for dancers. The UK production received much attention for its important message of achieving one's dreams and its soundtrack that includes hits such as "Maniac," "Manhunt," and its all-time beloved song, "What a Feeling."

FLASHDANCE the Musical was introduced to Korea in 2018 at DIMF, an annual musical festival hosted in Daegu. FLASHDANCE made a groundbreaking record of selling all tickets for every single show. After gaining much love and attention from Korean audiences, the musical became the first invited show of DIMF to make a return to Korea. With new actors joining the cast, the show had its opening show at Sejong Center for the Performing Arts.

One aspect of FLASHDANCE the Musical that stands out is that this is a show that everybody can enjoy. Because the original movie was well known, not only the fans of the movie can enjoy the show but people of a younger generation can also enjoy the dynamic dance movements and music. Also, the show has a storyline that may seem a bit outdated but because it is simple, anybody can easily follow along. After the curtain call, the show does something called a megamix which is an 8-minute mashup of its most popular songs, 'I Love Rock and Roll,' 'Maniac,' 'Manhunt,' and 'What a Feeling.' During this megamix, the audience gets a chance to sing along and loosen up with the actors, creating a unique bond.

Despite the fact that the original film is outdated and the show has an overall retro impression, FLASHDANCE the Musical is a show that reminds people about one's dreams. Also with its catchy songs and breathtaking dance movement, it captivates the audience attention. FLASHDANCE is a musical that you can just relax and enjoy without, absorbing the positivity, energy, and excitement.

After its final Seoul performance on February 17th, FLASHDANCE heads to Gwangju, Busan, Daegu, Andong, and finally ends its tour at Daejeon. Find the nearest venue and get tickets to experience a show that will give you much energy and excitement! Tickets start at 60,000 KRW and can be purchased at www.interparkglobal.com or at the ticket box. Check for discounts prior to purchasing tickets.

For more information, please visit www.interparkglobal.com.

Photo Credit: @flashdancekorea

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