Local choreographer Lee Hye-kyung and composer Choi Myung-hoon’s upcoming contemporary Korean dance production “Les Noces-Mae” will premier this month at the historic Landestheater Linz in Linz, Austria.

“Les Noces-Mae,” which was also directed by Taiwanese artist Lin Mei-hong ― widely praised as one of the world’s top contemporary choreographers ― will have its first showing on May 30, marking the first time a Korean contemporary dance program has ever been slated to feature as part of a European opera theater’s season performance.

Inspired by Russian choreographer Bronislava Nijinska’s ballet “Les Noces” or “The Wedding,” Lee and Choi’s Korean readaptation of the classic ballet adds the component of “mae” or communicating with the dead. 

Incorporating the elements of local folklore and Shamanism, the dance tells the tale of a Joseon Dynasty king and his unwillingness to part with the love of his life, even after death.

Same as the original “Les Noces,” the Korean rendition will also feature the original score by Igor Stravinsky.

In honor of the dance’s European premiere, the music will be brought to life by the State Choir of Linz and the world famous Bruckner Orchestra Linz, which will be conducted by renowned maestro Dennis Russell Davis of Switzerland’s Sinfonieorchester Basel Orchestra.

The production will also feature dancers from the State Dance Company of Linz.

“Les Noces-Mae” and will be staged at the Landestheater Linz until July 2 for a total of six performances.

By Julie Jackson  (juliejackson@heraldcorp.com)