Actor Park Jeongmin will take the stage again today (16) after overcoming the unprecedented situation of a cancellation just before the performance.
Earlier on the evening of the 10th, the musical "Life of Pi" decided to cancel the performance abruptly with only five minutes remaining before the start, drawing heavy criticism.
The production company said "During the final check of the performance yesterday, Feb. 10, we confirmed a lighting equipment error, and despite continued recovery work an unexplained malfunction occurred. Because it was a technical error in lighting equipment that affected movement paths, we decided to cancel the performance with safety as our top priority," and bowed in apology.
Although it was a licensed musical that opened last November and had been running for nearly three months, audience disappointment was considerable because the entry delays and the timing of the cancellation notice were too late. The production company moved to resolve the situation by announcing a replay performance and refunding 110% of ticket prices to audience members who came to the venue that day.
Actor Park Jeongmin also spoke directly for the audience. He said "I sincerely apologize to all the audience members who came to the evening performance yesterday (the 10th). It seems the production company decided to cancel because they judged that some lighting equipment had problems that would cause major inconvenience to viewing. It also seems there were safety reasons for the puppeteers who must move inside the puppets," explaining the situation at the time.
He continued, "But I think any reason cannot soothe the shock the audience felt in that moment; it was our fault. Thinking of the audience members who turned away with the theater doors not yet opened, their disappointment leaves me at a loss for words. I consider the precious time, energy and sincere feelings you gave to see this performance an unpayable debt," he emphasized, expressing his regret.
The replay performance at 7:30 p.m. today (16) was arranged at the enthusiastic suggestion of actor Park Jeongmin. Park Jeongmin said "Before offering an apology, I thought we should prepare alternatives with the production company and then speak, even if that would not be enough. I also believed that an apology without alternatives would be a rather irresponsible act. I suggested the production company organize special performances, and they willingly accepted," revealing the behind-the-scenes.
Today's performance gave priority seating to those who had booked seats for the canceled performance on the 10th in the same seats they had originally reserved, and audience members who choose to attend will receive an additional partial refund of 10% of the ticket price. Although some audience members opposed the schedule because the start of the Lunar New Year holiday made rescheduling difficult, Park Jeongmin added, "I know the replay cannot fill everyone's disappointment, but I hope it can at least offer a little comfort."
As Park Jeongmin vowed, "I will really do my best," attention is focused on whether tonight's stage can be a perfect recompense for the audience who left disappointed.
[Photo] Provided by S&Co.
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