Review: THE DEVOTION OF SUSPECT X at DCF VIVALDI HALL, What Would You Do For Love?

What would you do for love? Name a star after their name or jump off a cliff declaring your love? How about something more intense, something more daring and devoting? Whether you are a love expert or somebody who is in a desperate unreturned love relationship, THE DEVOTION OF SUSPECT X is a musical that will give both chills and tears to your heart.

THE DEVOTION OF SUSPECT X is a musical based on the 2005 original novel written by Keigo Higashino. This award-winning novel was made into a 2008 Japanese film and in 2012; a South Korean film adaption hit the cinemas. The musical adaption was first done in Korea with the book written by Young Jeong and numbers composed by Misol Won.

For this year's first production, a total of 12 actors came together to give a mind-blowing performance. Jaewoong Choi and Seongyoon Cho were cast for the role of Tetsuya Ishigami, a math teacher who devotes his whole life for love. For the role of Yasuko Hanaoka, a single mother who suffers because of her ex-husband, Hyeyoung Lim and Jiyou Kim was cast. Misato, the daughter of Yasuko is a one cast role played by Suyeon Ahn. Manabu Yukawa, an old college friend of Ishigami is played by Enok, Sungrok Shin, and Wongeon Song. The head detective, Shunpei Ksuanagi is portrayed by Daewoong Jang and Sunchang Cho and his assistant, Kissiya is played by Chanjong Kim. Lastly, the ex-husband of Yasuko, Togashi is played by Jeonghoon Ryu.

The set is rather simple with a two-story main structure on stage. On the top floor, the live band is hidden behind a translucent wall and there is a set of stairs on each side of the structure. Other small props such as desks and shelves are hidden behind the lower floor and are pushed forward when needed. This show uses a lot of lighting techniques to express many details. In the scene where the Ksuanagi explains to Yukawa about the crime scene, lights form rectangular shapes to show location.

One thing that definitely stands out in this production is the newly added numbers. Because, this musical is based on a novel, the Korean creative team had to compose every single number and to make sure that they fit with the story. They did an amazing job because every number was pleasing to hear and the lyrics of the songs were very touching.

THE DEVOTION OF SUSPECT X is a show that teaches people about pure humanity and the meaning of love. Some people may believe that love is an illogical matter that cannot be explained by the steps. On the other hand, some people believe that love is the most important thing in life. Whoever you are, whatever you believe, THE DEVOTION OF SUSPECT X will teach you a lesson with a thrilling mystery story with a touching end.

THE DEVOTION OF SUSPECT X plays at Vivaldi Park Hall, DCF Daemyeong Cultural Factory until August 12. Tickets start at 44,000 and can be purchased online at ticket.yes24.com and the ticket box. Be sure to check the cast prior to buying the tickets.

For more information, please visit ticket.yes.24.com

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