[Interview] The rhythms of Korea with 'Little Angels' dance peace and friendship in Kuwait
2024-05-10A commemorative photo after the performance of the 'Little Angels' troupe on May 1st at the Abdulhussein Abdulredha Theater in Kuwait, with the Director of the Kuwaiti Cultural Office (center) and the Kuwaiti Ambassador Chung Byung-ha (right) (Photo by Park Moo-Ae, Director of the Little Angels troupe).
On May 1st, the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Kuwait, in collaboration with the Kuwaiti National Council for Culture and Arts, hosted the Korean Folklore Heritage Revival Group 'Little Angels' on the stage of Abdulhussein Abdulredha Theater, celebrating 60 years of cooperation between the two countries in the field of energy and the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between them in a celebratory festival titled 'Rhythms of Korea'.
The 'Little Angels' captivated the hearts of the Kuwaiti audience, including members of the diplomatic corps, public figures, culture and arts enthusiasts, with the charm of Korean rhythms and the artistic sophistication of the folklore singing and dancing performances inspired by Korean cultural heritage. During their two-day stay in the country, they also performed at the closing ceremony of the 2024 Korean Ambassador's Taekwondo Cup in cooperation with the Korean Embassy, the Kuwaiti Korean Community Association, and the Kuwait Taekwondo Union on May 2nd.
Since its establishment in 1962 as a symbol of human interaction and transcending boundaries and cultures, the Folkloric Ballet Group 'Little Angels' has enchanted audiences in more than 60 countries with its magnificent performances of traditional Korean music and dance, conveying messages of friendship and peace. This visit marks the group's second to Kuwait after nearly 50 years since their first visit in 1974, before the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, underscoring the depth of cultural and artistic ties and their significance preceding political ones.
'The Little Angels' Korean troupe during their first artistic visit to Kuwait in 1974, before the establishment of political relations between the two countries (Photo by Park Moo-Ae, Director of the Little Angels troupe).
Through the interview conducted via email with the manager of the 'Little Angels' troupe, Park Moo-Ae, from May 2nd to May 5th, we will delve deeper into the experience of the 'Little Angels' in Kuwait. We will also gain insight into their role in promoting Korean culture and strengthening cultural ties between the two countries. Additionally, we will review the impact of the artistic and sports performances on the Kuwaiti audience and the bilateral relations between Kuwait and South Korea.
- Please introduce Little Angels to the readers. How was the group formed and what are its goals?
The Little Angels Art Troupe is a traditional Korean arts group composed of elementary and middle school children, founded on May 5, 1962, to promote the excellence of Korean cultural arts worldwide. Starting with a special performance for U.S. President Eisenhower in 1965, the group has played a role as civilian diplomatic peace envoys, conducting active activities such as over 60 overseas performances in 60 countries and more than 7,000 domestic and international performances. Over the past 62 years, it has established itself as a leading brand representing traditional Korean cultural arts.
- What are the ages of the members? And how did you choose traditional arts as a source of artistic inspiration?
We are a traditional arts group composed of children aged 9 to 15, specializing in Korean dance and choir performances. The Little Angels Art Troupe chose traditional arts to promote the rich history and beauty of Korean traditional arts when Korea was not well-known internationally and even before the concept of Hallyu existed. We also served as peace ambassadors, moving many with the innocence of children.
During the founding period of the Little Angels Art Troupe, Korea was recovering from the ravages of war. To move beyond this image and become icons of peace, children chose traditional performances. Today, we are known as a group that best embodies the name "Angels of Peace," gifting peace to people worldwide. Our repertoire is composed to spread Korean tradition and the ideals of peace worldwide.
The troupe presented the 'Drum Dance,' highlighting the vibrant Korean cultural life through the use of a variety of traditional percussion instruments. (Photo from the official Instagram account of the Kuwaiti National Council for Culture and Arts).
The traditional Korean 'Palace Dance' from the 'Rhythms of Korea' celebration at the Abdulhussein Abdulredha Theater. (From the official Instagram account of the Kuwaiti National Council for Culture and Arts).
- As a young group promoting traditional Korean folk arts worldwide, what are some challenges you face?
The Little Angels Art Troupe is composed of children, but in terms of completion and professionalism, it stands on equal footing with adult groups. We sometimes face difficulties in breaking prejudices against children's groups, but often, after people see our performances, these prejudices turn into greater appreciation.
During international performances, members must balance their studies alongside their performances due to being students. However, with pride in representing their country, our members overcome these challenges with even greater effort than other students.
- How was the performance in Kuwait, what songs and dances were showcased on stage?
The performance in Kuwait was diverse, featuring Korean dance, instrumental performances, choir performances, and K-pop cover dances.
It included: "Palace," a modern interpretation of traditional dance once performed in the royal court. "Fan Dance," creating beautiful flowers with fans. "Folk Singing with Gayageum," playing the traditional Korean string instrument Gayageum while singing. "Sword Dance," depicting swordsmanship training to maintain peace. "New Year Morning," a fun portrayal of traditional New Year's morning. "Hourglass Drum Dance," showcasing Korean rhythm using various traditional percussion instruments. Choir performances with beautiful melodies sung by the members who performed dance. Lastly, the finale was adorned with K-pop cover dances.
For the choir performances, the song "Watani Habibi," popular in Kuwait, and the Kuwaiti national anthem were selected. For the K-pop cover dances, popular K-pop songs loved by Kuwaiti citizens were chosen.
A variety of performances were organized in Kuwait, including Korean choreography, musical instrument showcases, group dances, and even K-pop dances. (Photo by Park Moo-Ae, Director of the Little Angels troupe).
The performance of the 'Little Angels' Performing Arts Chorus presented by the Kuwaiti Cultural Affairs Agency. (Photo by Park Moo-Ae, Director of the Little Angels troupe).
- How was the interaction with the audience? Did you enjoy interacting with Arab audiences?
The interaction with Arab audiences was different from Korean audiences. While Korean audiences often clap even during the performance, Arab audiences tend to concentrate without clapping until the end of each piece. However, at the end, they all stand up and give a standing ovation, which was touching to see, despite feeling a bit disappointed that the performance was over.
- What was the goal of the performance in Kuwait? What do you want to convey to the Middle Eastern audience through your performance?
This performance was part of a project organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Korea to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Korea-Kuwait Energy Agreement.
Through this performance, we aimed to showcase the strong relationship between Korea and Kuwait and hoped to maintain a friendly relationship through continued cultural exchanges. We expressed Korea's excellent traditional culture, which has contributed to making Korea a culturally rich country, through the genre of Korean dance. We hope the audience realizes that there is more to Korea than just K-pop and develops a deeper interest in Korea's diverse traditions.
- What was the most memorable moment from the performance in Kuwait?
During the performance, we prepared a Kuwaiti folk song called "Watani Habibi," and it was memorable when many audience members sang along and responded enthusiastically during the performance. Additionally, the moment when they responded with a standing ovation during the final finale is also unforgettable.
One of the standout moments of the festival for the 'Little Angels' troupe was when the audience stood up to applaud at the end of the performance. It's worth noting that Abdulhussein Abdulredha Theater can accommodate over 700 spectators. (Photo by Park Moo-Ae, Director of the Little Angels troupe).
- Aside from Kuwait, has the troupe historically performed shows in the Middle East before?
Over the past 62 years, we have performed in approximately 60 countries. Of course, we have also performed in Middle Eastern countries. In 1974, we performed in Kuwait, Iran, Lebanon, Morocco, and Tunisia. In 2009, we performed in Qatar. In 2022, we performed in the United Arab Emirates (Dubai). Especially in 2022, there was a special performance during "Dubai Expo 2020" as part of Korea Week.
- What do you think about the increasing popularity of Korean culture in the Arab world?
I believe there are many similarities between Arab culture, which values family and the concept of "filial piety," and Korean culture, as seen in the colorful traditional attire of "hanbok." Because of these similarities, I think there is a higher level of interest in Korean culture in the Arab world, leading to a rapid increase in fans.
I am pleased that through the spread of K-pop, K-dramas, and other cultural exports, there are opportunities to also introduce Korea's rich traditional culture to a wider audience.
On May 2nd, the 'Little Angels' troupe also performed at the closing ceremony of the 2024 Korean Ambassador's Taekwondo Cup in collaboration with the Korean Embassy, the Kuwaiti Korean Community Association, and the Kuwait Taekwondo Union. (Photo by Park Moo-Ae, Director of the Little Angels troupe).
- Can you share insights on the importance of traditional Korean art in modern society?
Korea is rapidly modernizing, like many other countries, and within this process, traditions are being forgotten. The Little Angels Art Troupe operates under the slogan "What is most Korean is also universal." Through this, we integrate tradition and modernity in our art, effectively preserving our rich history within the framework of traditional arts. We see it as our mission to carry on tradition through art, and we will continue to play a leading role in promoting Korea's beautiful cultural arts and ideals of peace worldwide.
- Do you have a final message for fans in Kuwait and the Middle East?
Thank you so much for your interest in the Little Angels Art Troupe and for attending this performance, which has made it shine even brighter. We are thrilled to introduce our group to fans in Kuwait and the Middle East through this performance. We hope to see you again at various performances and events in the future. Thank you! Additionally, please note that regular performances of the Little Angels Art Troupe are held at the Universal Art Center in Korea every May and December! We ask for your continued love and support.
The Little Angels Performing Arts Troupe was founded in South Korea on May 5, 1962, as a traditional artistic group comprised of children from elementary and middle schools. Its aim was to promote South Korean cultural arts excellence worldwide. (Photo from the official Instagram account of the Kuwaiti National Council for Culture and Arts).
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