Musical 'Evita' Returns, Exploring the Complex Legacy of Argentina's First Lady

The captivating musical 'Evita,' which chronicles the extraordinary life of Argentina's iconic First Lady, Eva Perón, is currently captivating audiences until January 11th at the Gwanglim Arts Center BBCH Hall.

In 1952, a nation mourned the loss of Eva Perón, so profoundly that official duties ceased for ten days and all businesses closed. Her journey from humble origins to becoming a beloved national figure was first brought to life on stage in 1979 with the musical 'Evita.' The production later saw a film adaptation in 1996 and its Korean premiere in 2006.

Now in its third Korean season, 'Evita' delves into the life of Eva Perón, from her beginnings as an illegitimate child who used her allure for survival to her rise as a powerful political figure. The musical focuses not just on her tumultuous past, but on the duality of her public image – why she is revered as a 'saint of Argentina' by some, while others view her with disdain and discomfort. This conflict is masterfully portrayed through the character of 'Che,' a narrator who questions her motives throughout the play.

Director Hong Seung-hee attributes the musical's enduring global appeal, spanning nearly half a century, to its exploration of 'human passion for dreams and the resulting light and shadow,' rather than merely focusing on politics or history itself. She believes that audiences continue to find resonance with Evita's story across different eras.

This season features a stellar cast, with Kim So-hyang, Kim So-hyun, and Yuria portraying Evita with exceptional vocal prowess. Michael Lee, Han Ji-sang, Min Woo-hyuk, and Kim Sung-sik take on the role of Che, while Son Joon-ho, Yoon Hyung-ryeol, and Kim Ba-ul play Juan Perón. After three months of rigorous rehearsals, the cast delivers a powerful sung-through performance, bringing to life the timeless melodies of musical legends Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber.

The production is further enhanced by dynamic choreography, including energetic contemporary dance and seductive tango numbers performed by the ensemble, creating a visually stunning experience akin to watching a dance troupe. Kim Sung-sik's acrobatic feats during the curtain call also draw significant audience admiration.

The musical prompts audiences to question whether Eva Perón truly deserves the respect and adoration she received. It juxtaposes her ambition to reach the pinnacle of power using male influence with her genuine efforts to aid the poor and champion the rights of workers and women.

The character of 'Che' embodies the critical perspective, accusing Evita of exploiting populist sentiment for her ambitions, leveraging her deteriorating health for political gain, and orchestrating a grand deception targeting the vulnerable. The narrative questions whether her iconic song, 'Don't cry for me, Argentina,' was a genuine plea or a self-consoling lament.

Contrasting with Evita's glamorous public image, the set design is stark, featuring skeletal metal structures for key furniture like a sofa and a throne, symbolizing the emptiness behind her facade. Her final farewell is depicted in a black-and-white video, mirroring the starkness of her life.

However, brilliant spotlights illuminate Evita, and a forward-extending terrace draws the audience's gaze upward, immersing them in her charisma. In the monochrome footage, the depicted crowds gaze at her with reverence.

Despite the powerful performances, some audience members noted the limitations of the stage size and the overwhelming sound system as minor drawbacks that could detract from the overall immersion.

As a special treat, an encore performance by 'Che' follows the curtain call, and practicing the 'three-step clap' is recommended for full enjoyment of the show's conclusion.

'Evita' continues its run until January 11th at the Gwanglim Arts Center BBCH Hall, offering a compelling exploration of Eva Perón's unforgettable life.

Netizens have praised the production, with comments like "Kim So-hyang's vocals were absolutely chilling!" and "The musical really captured the complex nature of Eva Perón." Many specifically highlighted the performance of 'Don't cry for me, Argentina' as a standout moment.