ⓒ Reporter Nam Gangho, Joseon Ilbo

Dean Kim Samjin of the School of Dance Transfers Korean Traditional Dance to the Dancers from Saudi Arabia

As a part of a collaborative traditional dance program with the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts (TRITA), 4 Saudi Arabian dancers received guidance from dean Kim Samjin of the School of Dance for 2 weeks. They learned the basics of traditional Korean dance in the School of Dance and practiced the creative dance piece, “Merged Dance,” choreographed by Kim who combined the traditional Saudi Arabian dance movements to the framework of the traditional Korean dance. The work, co-performed with the School of Dance students, was staged from 26 to 28 November at the Princess Noura Bint Abdul Rahman University.

From 3 years ago, TRITA has been wishing to collaborate with the K-Arts in traditional dance areas. With the master class and local performances, TRITA and K-Arts will continue their collaborative practices through dean Kim Samjin’s remote lessons. TRITA also stated it was considering including “Merged Dance” in the regular education curriculum for the dance department planned to open next year.