Among the eagerly anticipated highlights, Nobel laureate Han Kang’s profound novel, “We Do Not Part,” will be brought to life through a unique lecture-performance titled “Oiseau.” This significant event is scheduled for July 15 and 16 at the majestic Cour d’honneur in Avignon. The performance will feature renowned French actress Isabelle Huppert alongside acclaimed Korean actress Lee Hye-young, who will read the poignant first chapter of the novel, vividly portraying the tragedy of the April 3 Jeju massacre.
Prior to these performances, Han Kang is set to engage with readers during a special meeting on July 12. Further details regarding the author’s complete schedule will be announced soon.
The festival will also showcase a diverse array of other compelling Korean productions, including “1 Degree Celsius,” “Island Story,” “Kin: Yeonhee Project I,” “Muljil,” and “Snow, Snow, Snow,” highlighting the vibrant contemporary Korean performing arts scene.
Adding to the prestigious Korean presence, playwright Koo Ja-ha, notably the first Asian recipient of the distinguished International Ibsen Award, will present three of his critically acclaimed works: “Cuckoo,” “Haribo Kimchi,” and “The History of Korean Western Theatre.”
Running from July 4 to 25, the Avignon Festival celebrates the 140th anniversary of diplomatic ties between South Korea and France by designating Korean as its official guest language this year. In a landmark move, the festival will make its historic Asian debut in South Korea this October, forming a special segment of the Seoul Performing Arts Festival, scheduled from October 10 to 15.
