"Suddenly, I am happy." This was exactly my thought as I left a little theatre in Daegu city on Sunday afternoon. It is also the English translation of the title of this blog and the name of the concert musical which made me 'oh so' joyful.
A few weeks ago, I got a surprise phone call from a Korean English teacher from one of the other branch schools in the area. She invited me to watch a Korean musical in her home town. It turned out to be one of the best afternoons I have had in Korea
"To members of the cast and production team of "Suddenly, I'm Happy!"
I am a native English teacher from South Africa. I have been in South Korea for only a few months. I felt surprised and rather honoured to be invited by a friend to watch your play last Sunday in Daegu. I had no idea what to expect and was rather concerned that I would not understand the story as I know so little of the Korean language. My friend gave me a summary of the story, with the characters' names and the basic plot, so I would be able to follow more easily.
Even without the summary, I would have been able to follow the story line because the acting, singing, movement and comedy were of such high quality. Every audience member was enthralled from the very beginning to the very end. I have watched many musicals in South Africa, England (West End) and South Korea. Never have I seen such energy and charisma throughout a performance. I smiled and laughed the whole way through and was simply blown away by the brilliance of it all. I would like to pass on my congratulations to all the actors, organisers and production team for putting on an incredible show. It just shows that language is not the only way to connect and communicate with people.
I was equally impressed with the attitude of the actors after the show; they shook hands with every audience member and there was an opportunity to take photos with the cast after the performance. All this extra effort added to the wonderful experience. As a foreigner in South Korea, I would like to thank you for a wonderful afternoon of theatre and entertainment."
It is amazing how a few hours can change your attitude and perk you up for the week ahead. I was just so impressed. Everything in life happens for a reason; if only to make one take a step back, take a look and oneself and realise that life is actually a wonderful thing, if we remember to enjoy it!
