Hello. This is <Realworld EXP.>. We previously shared the news that Realworld, a leader in experience trends, would be taking on the challenge of immersive theater through <Realworld EXP.>. The result of this endeavor, <Hotel Pygmalion>, will be unveiled in October. The immersive genre has already become a global trend with productions like 'Sleep No More' and 'Immersive Fort Tokyo,' and in Korea, performances with the 'immersive' label can easily be found. The competition to create more engaging experiences for audiences has begun.
With the first performance of <Hotel Pygmalion> scheduled for October 2nd approaching, the actors are in the midst of final rehearsals. Before we dive into a full introduction, let's take this time to trace back and explore how this production came to be planned.
The Beginning of Realworld Immersive: Montage Sequence
<Hotel Pygmalion> is not Realworld's first immersive work. In November 2019, we also staged a production called 'Montage Sequence.' 'Montage Sequence' was Korea's first gamification theater, where audiences left their seats to move through the stage and dressing rooms, discovering clues themselves and helping detective characters find the culprit.
'Montage Sequence' recorded 1,580 audience members with a 93.6% audience satisfaction rate and 93.5% performance immersion rate, receiving excellent reviews.
Selected for the 2024 Arts Startup Growth Support Program
Realworld decided to take on an immersive project again after a long time since 'Montage Sequence.' This opportunity came thanks to government support - UniqueGood Company, Realworld's operating company, was selected for the '2024 Arts Startup Growth Support Program' by the Arts Management Support Center under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.
Although selected for the program, since Realworld wasn't specialized in performance business, we needed help from external experts. Through collaboration with 'Olla Art Company,' a performance planning company that had planned various immersive plays, we were able to strengthen our planning and quickly move to the next stage.
The casting process also proceeded swiftly within the tight schedule. The actor recruitment announcement for <Hotel Pygmalion> received such热烈关注 that it garnered over 6,000 views. Through fierce competition, a total of six actors were cast: Lee Dong-yoon, Jeon Ju-il, Oh Ja-song, Kim Song-hyeon, Jo Tae-young, and Lee Ki-choon.
Once casting was confirmed, rehearsals began in September. Now, ahead of the October opening, rehearsals are being conducted at Realworld Seongsu.
The Transformation of Realworld Seongsu
While <Hotel Pygmalion> was being planned, Realworld Seongsu also underwent a transformation. Since the existing space wasn't suitable for performances, major renovation work was carried out - even the construction barriers exude Realworld's distinctive feel. How has Realworld Seongsu changed as it's reborn as a performance venue?
The previously cramped exterior walls have been replaced with floor-to-ceiling glass windows, creating an open and refreshing feeling. People passing by on Seongsu streets can now peek inside Realworld Seongsu and enter out of curiosity. Inside, additional performance lighting has been installed, and actor waiting rooms and secret spaces have been created to establish an environment suitable for immersive performances.
Now with only the official opening remaining, Realworld's immersive theater <Hotel Pygmalion> will run for just one month in October, so don't miss this opportunity. It's already showing such热烈反响 that all sessions are sold out, but cancelled tickets may occasionally become available, so keep checking. Please refer to the dedicated page below for ticket reservation information. Thank you.
▼ Book tickets for <Hotel Pygmalion> ▼