What I liked
The simplicity of staging. The strength of the actors’ performances. The silence. The stillness. The use of authentic Korean instruments, gayageum and janggu, played by such talented musicians, Joseph and Charis.
The writing is so strong and was uplifted by two very gifted actors, Karla and Aubrey. I was fully immersed immediately in the world they created.
Joseph, who played the gayageum, had a small part voicing a militant guard. He captured the tone and inflection that’s all so uniquely Korean in its hostility and patriarchal dominance. It added to the terror and horror, without showing a single moment of violence.
So much thought was put into creating such a streamlined and powerful piece. I applaud Soo not just for her incredible writing, but also her directing.
What I didn't like
If I had to say anything, it’d be around the timing of the subtitles. The actors’ delivery of lines wasn’t always synched up. This is such a powerful show, and there’s so much stillness at times, to hold the space for such overencompassing emotions, that I’d hope the timing of those could be perfect, so non-Korean speaking audiences can have the same impact as those who understand the Korean being spoken. I want the full power of the show to be felt by all.
My overall impression
“To be liberated” is a quiet powerhouse of a show. The embodiment of “han” for the audience to experience firsthand, was so deeply moving and human, I’m in awe of how big of an impact the show had in just 30 minutes. Instead of telling us about han, we were taken through the actual experience. And han is a complex emotion and concept to explain — it has to be felt. “To be liberated” 100% delivered on giving the audience that experience.
Everything about “To be liberated” is so intentional, from the staging, to the moments of stillness, the live music, and of course, it starts with the writing. Soo Chyun’s writing demonstrates an intricate understanding of our self-judgements, loathing, shame, anger, sadness, and hopes, so beautifully personified by Karla and Aubrey.
“To be liberated” is one of the most moving pieces of theatre I’ve seen in years. Absolutely brilliant and beautiful! I could go on forever.
