Nanta is a one-of-a-kind South Korean musical comedy. It's a non-verbal performance centered around cooking. The actors incorporate samulnori rhythms into their performance, a traditional Korean music genre. It's a must-see for theater and entertainment enthusiasts.

Overview

In this musical comedy, a team of chefs faces the urgent challenge of preparing a wedding banquet, complicated by the director's inexperienced nephew joining the kitchen. Nanta blends comedy, magic tricks, juggling, and acrobatics. Samulnori plays a central role in the show. It's performed using improvised instruments, including cutting boards, water buckets, and kitchen knives. The performance relies on virtually no dialogue, using only a few words. This makes it accessible to audiences from all backgrounds. Part of the show is interactive. The performers invite select audience members to participate in the performance.

History

Nanta was born in the 1990s. It was first presented to an international audience in 1999 at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, where it won the award for best performance. The show has since been performed in more than 50 countries, including the United States. Currently, Nanta runs in two private theaters in Seoul: Myeongdong and Hongdae. It's also featured on Jeju Island (at a hotel bearing its name) and in Bangkok, Thailand.

Where to See the Show?

The most popular venue for this musical comedy is Myeongdong. Here's the exact address: 26, Myeongdong-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul. The theater is located on the 3rd floor of the building that houses the Innisfree cosmetics store (1st floor).

To reach it from Myeongdong Station (Seoul Metro Line 4), exit at Exit 4 and continue straight for about 200 meters. Turn left at the Teenie weenie store. The building is 50 meters away. If you're coming from Euljiro 1-ga Station (Line 2), take the stairs between Exits 5 and 6, continue straight for 200 meters, and you'll reach the building.

Show Times and Ticket Prices

Monday through Friday, performances are held at 5 PM and 8 PM. On weekends and holidays, shows run at 2 PM and 5 PM. Ticket prices range from $26.50 to $43.90 USD, depending on your seat location in the theater.