The show musical Again 'Dream High' is set to open on April 5, with the main character 'Song Sam-dong' played by Seven, Kim Dong-jun (ZE:A), Young-jae (GOT7), and Jin-jin (ASTRO) expressing that it is a 'work that paints dreams' while urging fans to expect a powerful performance.
Seven, Kim Dong-jun, Young-jae, and Jin-jin have taken on the role of K-POP stars with a global fandom in the show musical Again 'Dream High' (hosted by Art One Company Co., Ltd./general producer Kim Eun-ha). Seven vowed to make it a 'work that will remain in the heart for a long time,' while Kim Dong-jun, a fan of the original drama, and Jin-jin, who is returning for a second run after the premiere, also expressed their affection for 'Dream High', encouraging the audience to come and have a reflective time thinking about their 'dreams.' The following is a Q&A with Seven (hereafter Se), Kim Dong-jun (hereafter Kim), Young-jae (hereafter Young), and Jin-jin (hereafter Jin) who play Sam-dong.
1. What led you to participate in the show musical Again 'Dream High' and how do you feel about it?
Se: I’m so happy to be part of such a wonderful work. I will do my best to make it a work that remains in people’s hearts for a long time.
Kim: I remember the original drama 'Dream High' aired when I was actively promoting as a member of ZE:A (Children of the Empire), and I found it very entertaining. I received the offer for the role of 'Song Sam-dong' and I am returning to the musical stage after 8 years; I want to show my 'dream's height.'
Young: At first, I was involved through the OST. On the day I recorded 'Starlight', I received a handwritten letter from senior Park Kyung-rim. That day, I gratefully ended up participating in the musical.
Jin: I’m participating again following the 2023 premiere. 'Dream High' is a work I have great affection for, and it's also my musical debut. So when I heard about the second performance, I made my decision to participate immediately. In the first show, I played 'Jason', and this time I will play 'Song Sam-dong.' I think it's not an easy experience to perform as different characters in the same work. Therefore, participating in the encore performance holds special significance for me.
2. What are the main attractions of 'Dream High'? And can you give a sneak peek of what charms you will show?
Se: There are spectacular performances and exciting music. I’m confident that I can delight the audience's eyes and ears with emotionally touching numbers!
Kim: The point of the 'show musical' is a more intensified performance compared to existing musicals. It’s a work that requires one to dance well, sing, and act well. You won’t be able to take your eyes off it. Since the performances are very strong, I'm diligently preparing while feeling worried with each practice. You will be able to see Kim Dong-jun's 'Dong Sam-dong' (Dong-jun + Song Sam-dong) very closely, along with the two versions of Kim Dong-jun: one from the ZE:A days and the current one.
Young: I am trying to understand as much as possible to express Sam-dong well. I feel that fans will like it even more as I see a part of my past in Sam-dong's character.
3. If you were to give a hint about what kind of work this is becoming, what would it be?
Se: The production team and actors are working hard together to create a good work. As we continue rehearsing, our teamwork improves day by day, so please look forward to the main show!
Kim: Since there are so many cast members, we become atmosphere creators for one another and all prepare hard in a fun way. I think everyone is becoming a 'work that seeks and dreams of dreams' with overflowing energy.
Young: It seems that we are able to showcase a much richer play by showing more diverse aspects.
Jin: Senior Park Kyung-rim is doing a great job as a creative director, coordinating excellently between the actors and the production team, which I think is enhancing the quality of the work. I feel very reassured.
4. If you could say something to your character, what would it be?
Se: "Sam-dong! Don't be nervous! You're already the best!" I want to give a word of encouragement because I feel so sorry for Sam-dong when he goes through a slump.
Kim: What's similar between Sam-dong and me is that we are both 'continuously running toward our dreams.' However, there are times when we need to endure and cope with difficulties, leading to many thoughts; I would like to tell him, 'I hope you keep the longing you had in the beginning until the end.'
Young: It's all okay, and time will eventually solve everything.
Jin: "You’re doing well enough, and you deserve all the love, Sam-dong." Personally, I have also had similar thoughts during tough or low times. I have often wondered, 'Will I be able to get through this well?' but hearing from those around me, 'You’re doing well. Just believe in yourself and keep moving forward' has been a great source of strength for me. That's why I want to share that story with Sam-dong.
5. What’s your favorite number in the work and why?
Se: 'Starlight.' It's a very beautiful scene that depicts the friendship and dreams of friends. I feel teary every time I practice it. I hope the audience can feel that emotion together!
Kim: 'Look in the Mirror.' This song is about Sam-dong reflecting on how he has lived in the past while singing with his mentor, Kang Oh-hyuk. It feels like supporting myself through the mirror, and it resonates with how I feel right now. It also reminds me of my trainee days when I practiced in front of the mirror and my time as a singer, convincing me that I need to create a version of myself that can shine even more in the future.
Young: 'Someday.' That scene is so sad that every time I see it during practice, I feel emotional. I think senior Sun-ye and Luna's character Baek-hee are well portrayed, and it's my favorite.
Jin: 'Look in the Mirror.' I believe it's a song that allows you to experience reflecting on yourself. I think both the song and the play unfold very well, and it feels like a song that speaks to oneself, making it my favorite number.
6. Is there anyone you particularly want to watch this?
Se: I hope the work reaches everyone from young students nurturing their dreams to adults who have lived through that time… It's a work I hope everyone with a dream gets to see.
Kim: I first want to share this with the members of ZE:A (Children of the Empire), who were together during the time the original drama aired.
Jin: I hope the members of ASTRO will definitely watch it. We have shared memories of overcoming tough times together as trainees, so if they watch it, I believe they will understand Sam-dong a lot.
7. A word to the audience coming to watch the performance
Se: I will bring joy and emotion to the audience who are living for their dreams. See you at the venue!
Kim: I hope it becomes a work that provides warm comfort and courage to everyone walking toward their dreams. If there are those who are on a dark night in the journey of pursuing their dreams, I want to pass on the message that I believe you will find the bright light!
Young: I will show a magnificent performance to fans attending the show, so you won’t be disappointed! Thank you so much, and I love you!
Jin: I am diligently preparing to show a new side of myself as Sam-dong, so I hope for a lot of anticipation. Since this is a work I personally hold dear, I would appreciate it if many come to see and love it!
The show musical Again 'Dream High', featuring a hot lineup of stars including Seven, Kim Dong-jun, Young-jae, Jin-jin, Choo Yeon-sung, Jang Dong-woo, Kang Seung-sik, Yoon Seo-bin, Yoo Gwon, Lim Se-jun, Kim Dong-hyun, Sun-ye, Luna, Lee Ji-hoon, Kim Da-hyun, and Jung Dong-hwa, will open on April 5 at the Woori Financial Art Hall in Olympic Park. Tickets can be purchased through YES24 Ticket and TicketLink.
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