Seoul’s Namsan Gugak Center to Host ‘Eumma Gaengkaeng Puppet Theater’
Seoul’s Namsan Gugak Center will present the omnibus puppet theater performance, ‘Eumma Gaengkaeng Puppet Theater,’ on April 18, 2026, at the Crown Haitai Hall. The performance blends traditional Korean puppet theater, known as ‘Dulmi,’ with traditional entertainment elements like Samulnori and Beona. Seoul Namsan Gugakdang, the venue, aims to make traditional arts more accessible to the public through creative performances.
A Unique Blend of Tradition and Performance
‘Eumma Gaengkaeng Puppet Theater’ is a collaborative project between Yeonhui Workshop Eummagangkkang and Seoul Namsan Gugakdang, supported by the Arts Council of Korea’s Performing Arts Creative Entity Support Project. The performance utilizes traditional characters, including the Dulmi doll, to interpret various traditional performance elements through puppetry. It features a live performance format combining Dulmi doll dancing, samulnori and dolls carved in the likeness of the performers.
Family-Friendly Entertainment
The production is designed to appeal to audiences of all ages, from children to adults, with humorous performances by Dulmi dolls and Ishimi characters. The combination of traditional puppet theater’s charm and the energy of traditional entertainment promises a unique stage experience. Yeonhui Workshop Eumma Gaengkaeng specializes in creating puppets and performances based on the ‘Dulmi’ tradition, striving to make traditional puppetry enjoyable and accessible.
Seoul Namsan Gugakdang: A Center for Traditional Arts
Seoul Namsan Gugakdang, established in 2007, is dedicated to promoting Korean traditional music and performing arts. The building itself is designed to preserve the aesthetics of traditional Hanok architecture, with a unique underground structure that blends with the surrounding environment. Features include the ‘Chimsangwon,’ a sunken garden inspired by Gyeongbokgung Palace, providing natural light and scenery. The venue underwent remodeling in September 2022 to enhance the performance experience. More information about the venue can be found on their website.
Performance Details
The ‘Eumma Gaengkaeng Puppet Theater’ will be performed twice on April 18, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. And 2:00 p.m. Tickets are priced at 20,000 won for all seats. Reservations and further information are available on the Seoul Namsan/Donhwamun Traditional Music Center website: www.sgtt.kr.
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