The production team of tvN’s ‘Jung Nyeoni’ (written by Choi Hyo-bi, directed by Jung Ji-in) released behind-the-scenes photos of the traditional drama scene on the 1st. ‘Jung Nyeoni’ featured scenes reminiscent of actual performances. ‘Chunhyangjeon’ (Episode 3) and ‘Jamyeonggo’ (Episode 6) are representative examples.
These attracted viewers with the charm of traditional drama. As in Jung Nyeoni’s (played by Kim Tae-ri) line, it showcased a ‘paradise.’ It shed new light on the traditional drama, which was at its peak in the 1950s, reigniting interest in comprehensive performing arts that had been forgotten.
The high-level stage, for something considered a play-within-a-play, received rave reviews. The ‘Jung Nyeoni’ production team and actors dedicated a long period to mastering sound, choreography, and stage direction. First, the sound. According to the production team, a long and thorough preparation process was required for the stage within ‘Jung Nyeoni’ to be completed.
Some received sound lessons for three months, and others for more than a year. Repetitive practice was essential. The cast members learned the detailed expressions of breath, tone, and delivery, then proceeded to record. Afterward, they refined their sound with their instructors.
The song recorded the most was ‘Gunsa Sorrow’ from the ‘Jamyeonggo’ stage. Originally recorded in two versions, it was re-recorded to express Jung Nyeoni’s intense emotions. To create a more complete scene, they also relied on technological assistance. As they were not professional singers, there were limitations with practice alone.
The scene was implemented through post-production. Choreography also received attention. Since most of the cast members were trying it for the first time, they focused on strengthening their basics. They attended dance classes every Friday and practiced movements.
They participated in choreography classes at least twice a week, with some learning dance up to seven times a week. Besides official training, they also scheduled separate lessons whenever possible. Video monitoring was utilized as well.
Each actor’s practice was recorded, then reviewed with director Jung Ji-in and the choreography instructor to further develop movements. After the stage set was created, new choreography was designed utilizing it. For example, in ‘Chunhyangjeon,’ Jung Nyeoni added visual enjoyment by using stage height differences in ‘Bangjapunbu.’
Finally, the stage direction of the traditional drama was carried out with the greatest effort. For director Jung and all the staff, it was a new experience to create a traditional drama stage. They had to find common ground with the performance direction team. It was challenging due to the differing expression methods of a drama stage and a theatrical performance.
Close communication between the leaders of both sides was necessary. The two incessantly exchanged opinions, checked practice videos of the actors, visited the actual practice room, and set the acting tone. They communicated even in setting the movements.
The actors also gave their best efforts. Due to production conditions, they had to film the traditional drama scenes over several days. They played their roles passionately, even when shooting only the audience’s reactions. A representative explained, “We feel grateful and proud that ‘Jung Nyeoni’ has sparked an interest in traditional drama,” adding, “We plan to present two more traditional dramas within the remaining six episodes.”
They further stated, “There will be new charms and spectacles different from the previous ‘Chunhyangjeon’ and ‘Jamyeonggo.’ We ask for your continued interest and support as we present an even more splendid paradise.” Meanwhile, ‘Jung Nyeoni’ airs every Saturday and Sunday at 9:20 PM.
<Photo courtesy of tvN>
