By Honorary Reporter Ghada Mohamed Ali from Egypt

The Korea Foundation and Tunisian Embassy in Seoul have organized in Tunisia the show "Beat of Korea," which features the globally acclaimed non-verbal performance "Nanta," a fusion of traditional percussion, comedy and culinary artistry. 

The foundation said it wanted to introduce the show at the Medina Festival in Tunis to promote exchange and cooperation between both countries and publicize the Korea-Africa Summit set for June in Seoul. 

At the Municipal Theater of Tunis on April 6, "Nanta" left audiences spellbound through the fusion of kitchen utensils, folk music and percussion.

The following are excerpts from an email interview from April 7-17 with members of the production.

This "Nanta" performance in Daejeon is from Dec. 16, 2023. (PMC Production Ass't Manager Jane Kim)

Director Song Seung-hwan said he aimed for a performance transcending language and to showcase Korean culture globally by blending traditional percussion with comedy. He added that rhythmic beats representing Korea's heritage and physical humor produces universal laughter.

The name "Nanta" translates to "strike widely" in Korean, reflecting the aim of deeply connecting with audiences. The use of kitchen utensils and cutting boards as percussion tools was a deliberate choice to break down cultural barriers, plus safety measures were crucial.

An audience member takes part in the performance. (Korean Embassy in Tunisia's Facebook page)

Head chef Hwang In-ho explained the creative process behind "Beat of Korea." It began with a gilnori (traditional parade) scene featuring traditional percussion with pots and giant water bottles. Performers also interacted with the Tunisian audience by using phrases in Arabic.

Kim Kyu-na, a performer of this team, called the audience's response "phenomenal and exceeding expectations," adding that the theater erupted in laughter from both young and old because of the show's humor.

Show manager Kim Tae-wan said the challenge was to adapt "Nanta" to diverse cultures while maintaining its Korean essence, adding, "The most Korean things are the most global." 

The show's non-verbal nature facilitates universal communication, she said, and directors and actors extensively research each host country and make adjustments to avoid cultural insensitivity, including altering costumes and scenes.

"Nanta" uses kitchen utensils and cutting boards as percussion instruments. (Korean Embassy in Tunisia's Facebook page)

Despite no spoken language, Nanta's humor and emotions resonate globally. Kim Tae-wan said this is because of relatable themes like love and friendship set in the familiar backdrop of a kitchen. 

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.