Actor Jo Byeong-kyu has described his musical debut as a major personal challenge. He starred as King Louis XIV in 'Opera', which premiered from October 1 to 18 at Ewha Womans University Samsung Hall in Seoul. The show depicts the passion, friendship, and rivalry among the French king, playwright Molière, and composer Jean-Baptiste Lully as they create art together.

What was 'Opera' about?

According to Yonhap News Agency, the production follows the king's authority and inner loneliness and trauma at the height of absolute monarchy. Jo performed alongside actor Mun Tae-yoo in the role.

How did Jo judge his own performance?

In an interview with Yonhap on October 21, Jo said he poured everything into the show until he felt completely drained. He admitted he felt his limits next to experienced musical actors, and he gave himself a score of 50 out of 100. He said the music director told him that singing and acting connected well, and he cried during the final curtain call.

What comes next for Jo?

Jo said he hopes to take on more musicals and improve his singing. He mentioned wanting to adapt 'The Stolen Book', a work by the director of 'Wonderful Rumor', into a musical, though that plan did not happen. He also said he plans to enlist in the military at the end of this year.

For international fans

Jo is best known to Korean audiences as an actor, and 'Opera' marks his first stage musical. Fans outside Korea who want to follow his stage work should check official announcements from his agency for future performances.