A Study on how to use Namsadang Nori Deoboegi for Training Actors

This paper studies the possible ways to make the most of Namsadang Nori Deotboegi which has been designated as National Intangible Cultural Property No 3 as well as UNESCO World Intangible Cultural Heritage in training actors. Considering the fact that all six parts of a Namsadang performance were included as Important Intangible Cultural Properties, the historical and traditional value of the itinerant performance troupe is significant. The improvisatory characteristics of witty remarks, the ‘Korenness’ of the movement and breathing in Deotboegi dance, the spatial awareness realised through performing witty remarks with musician as well as the ‘Koreaness’ in the emotions conveyed are the particular values of Deotbeogi for training actors. The required ability to listen to the co-performer and not to anticipate what might be said next helps the performer do develop a strong focus to be able to stay in the moment. The heightened awareness of the body, and the ability to control it as well as the awareness of the space including the co-performers are helpful in the context of both traditional and contemporary performance.