Historia de Amor

2015 KTO Adventure on May 12

What we are doing: Watching a theatrical performance at the 14th Uijeonbu Music Theatre Festival called Historia de Amor. 

Where we are going: Uijeonbu Arts Center... This is how you are going to get there. 

1) Hop on the subway nearest you (for us we rode line 7 all the way up north)

2) Get off the subway at Dobongsan (line 7 and 1).

3) Walk out exit 1, turn left and walk up the stairs through the tunnel until you go up the stairs to the main road. (You'll see the mountain, which one? I'm not sure but you will also see a gas/petrol station across the street. Cross the street to the middle bus way (go to the left bus stop)

4) Wait for the 133 bus... When it comes get on! Don't forget to use your T-Money card (public transportation discounts and transfer benefits)

5) You'll be on this bus for awhile so get a seat if possible but be respectful and give up your seat for the elderly, pregnant, and disabled. You'll pass Hoeryong Station, a McDonald's, VIPs 

6) When you see an abandoned restaurant with a giant crab on it get off or if you're not quick enough you can get off at the next stop. The arts center is visible from both stops. 

7) Walk... You've arrived! Congratulations~

Getting home... Follow directions in reverse except lucky you, the bus stop is immediately in front of the arts center. 

What we are wearing:

I figured I'm watching a story about amor I should be sporting red lips. The lace top is smart for summer but I'm glad I wore my leather jacket over it when the cold rain came. 

What we are bringing:

Don't forget to bring your lip color for touch ups. Bring some cash (always a good idea) and what you normally take with you when you venture outside. 

Had I known the food situation I would have packed a snack, granola bar or kimbap (mmmm kimbap!) I also brought my yellow umbrella (not pictured).

What we are eating: Honestly the area is very limited when it comes to food choices. Come prepared or eat before/after. We decided to stop at our beloved 김밥나라 (review coming soon) on our way home for some monster 소고기김밥 (beef kimbap).

What we are going to remember for next time: 

1) English subtitles may not be provided so come with an open mind and your best interpretive skills.

2) Food! Like mentioned above, don't expect to have many options. There is a buffet and a small cafe on location and a GS down the street. 

3) Check the weather forecast!!! Don't be caught using the restroom hand-dryers to dry off your soaked shoes. 

DOs and DON'Ts

Do use public transport (there is ample parking, however)

Don't let buses scare you (there's even an app!)

Do go with friends (events like this are meant to be shared and discussed) or a twin sister ^_^

Don't use your phone during the performance (this includes taking photos and videos)

Do play on the spiral piano stair case!

Amanda's thoughts: So, what did I think about the actual performance? 

First of all, it was in Spanish with Korean subtitles. I took Spanish in highschool and I'm continuously studying Korean; however, most details were lost on me. And to be honest I completely disliked the plot: a man who is obsessed with a woman named Sophia so he repeatedly rapes her and controls her with fear. Perhaps the performance had a message about this kind of abuse but again I could not understand it if it was deep in the dialogue (which was heavy on the male lead's monologues). Personally, I do not like sexually explicit anything. I would have preferred to see one of the Korean acts. That being said, the creative way it was done was interesting: only two actors behind a screen onto which was projected an entirely animated storyboard. With the help of ingenious lighting the "real" actors fit into the drawn backgrounds. 

There are always amazing experiences and not so enthralling ones when you venture out of your norm. Don't let the possibility of disappointment ever stop you from trying something.