Feb 23 • 23:03 UTC 🇰🇷 Korea Hankyoreh (KR)

19-Year-Old Gabber Kim Junsu Says, 'Beetlejuice Is All About Energy, So What?'

Kim Junsu reflects on his challenging experience portraying Beetlejuice in a musical, balancing comedy and audience interaction while altering the character's traditional image.

In an interview, Kim Junsu, the star of the musical 'Beetlejuice,' spoke candidly about the challenges he faced taking on such a comedic role, which marks a significant departure from his previous act of portraying more glamorous characters. He shared how he initially struggled with the awkwardness of delivering comedic lines in front of a mirror, feeling a sense of self-consciousness that left him questioning his decision to participate in the production. The musical, running until March 22 at LG Arts Center in Seoul, calls for a rapid delivery of lines and physical comedy, pushing Junsu to adapt to a very different performance style than what he's used to.

During the interview, Junsu elaborated on how he redefined the character of Beetlejuice, envisioning him not as an old, grotesque man, but rather as a child-like figure who is cute yet mischievous, providing a fresh perspective on the character previously portrayed in Tim Burton's film. He emphasized the interactive aspect of the performance, where the protagonist engages with the audience and utilizes improvisation, which enhances the overall experience of the show. Junsu’s initial concerns about the audience's acceptance of his use of adult language and humor quickly dissipated after the positive reception following the first performance, allowing him to loosen up and react more naturally during subsequent shows.

Overall, Junsu expressed that creating a lively character was more of a priority than focusing on musical elements. Despite the ongoing feelings of embarrassment on stage, he embraced the challenge, stating that the essence of Beetlejuice is all about having energy and confidence. This reflects maturity not just as a performer but also in his growth as a versatile artist capable of tackling different genres, showcasing his evolution from a K-Pop idol to a competent musical actor with comedic potential.

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