Awakening

15.03, 14. 06. 2025 / Residenzschloss - SKD / Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden

Inspired by the Korean myth of Ungnyeo, Awakening tells the story of a female bear’s transformation into a Korean woman, a journey in search of true happiness. Korean Shamanism, in which female shamans known as Mudang act as intermediaries between the human and spiritual realms, serves as the cultural backdrop for this narrative.

Awakening depicts this path of transformation, emphasizing the profound power of rituals that guide us toward a complete and harmonious way of living. The choreography seamlessly weaves contemporary dance with traditional Korean elements, rendering the spiritual journey of metamorphosis visible. Illustrating the deep connection between nature, spirit, and culture, the piece culminates in a renewal brought to completion with the birth of the Korean woman.

Through fluid movements and modern dance motifs, the inner transformation becomes tangible as the boundaries between past, present, and future softly dissolve into one another.

Curator: Claudia Brink

Art Direction: Lilli Horvath

Choreography / Performance: Soyeon Shin

Assistant: Dennis Dietrich

Costume Design: Soli Jang

Sound Design: Benedikt Bauer

Ass. Production: Ariane Thalheim & Nicole Maier

Photographic / Film: Jim Küster