'The Lady at the Tobacco Shop' Returns After 8 Years with a Fresh Take and Intergenerational Cast

The beloved original musical 'The Lady at the Tobacco Shop,' a staple in Daehangno's theater scene, is set to return to the stage after an eight-year hiatus.

Inspired by the hit 1980s song of the same name by singer Song Chang-sik, the musical transcends a simple adaptation. It has carved out a solid niche in Daehangno by developing its own unique storyline and incorporating contemporary sensibilities, even running for multiple seasons – an unusual feat for a small-theater original musical.

This latest iteration promises a revitalized experience, featuring a revised storyline and character compositions to present it as a family musical. Ori Ra, known for directing and writing hits like 'Oh! Carol' and 'Bravo My Love,' will helm the adaptation and direction, joined by music director Lee Yong-gyu and choreography director Choi Young-joo.

The production boasts a cast that spans generations. Park Hyung-joon, who portrayed 'Ji-hwan' in seasons 1 and 2, will return as 'Song Chang-sik,' the owner of the tobacco shop and Yeon-hwa's father. Singer Jung Jae-wook, known for his appearances on 'King of Mask Singer' and 'Sugar Man,' will also join the cast in the same role, alongside Yoo Jong-yeon and Kim Yul.

Ricky, a former member of the idol group Teen Top, will take on the role of 'Ye-ga-ram,' alongside Shin Ye-joon and Park Tae-jun. Jung Yu-na, currently active in London's West End, will play 'Song Yeon-hwa,' with former CLC member Oh Seung-hee, and newcomers Jo Yoon-seul and Kang Yu-jin also cast in the role.

Kim Charly, Son Seul-gi, and Lee Han-wool will perform as 'Dokgo Dok-jae,' the young, rich, and self-proclaimed owner of a building. Park Se-woong, Jo Hwal, and Do Yeon-woo will embody 'Yoo Seon-yul,' Ye-ga-ram's friend. Kim Min-joong, Joo Hyun-woo, and Park Hae-soo are cast as 'Park Han-gyeol.' Moon Seul-a, Seo Tae-in, and Woo Seo-ra will join as 'Bang Soo-ae,' the owner of a live cafe.

'The Lady at the Tobacco Shop' will run from December 20th to February 28th of next year at the Hama Theater in Daehangno, Seoul, marking its grand return after eight years.

Netizens are expressing excitement for the musical's return, with comments like 'It's finally back!' and 'I'm looking forward to seeing what they do with the new cast.' Fans who enjoyed previous seasons are particularly hopeful, anticipating the chance to relive the original emotions and experience.