Ballet Star Kim Ki-min Pours Heart into Béjart Ballet Lausanne's 'Boléro' for Korean Tour

The upcoming performances of Béjart Ballet Lausanne (BBL) in South Korea, featuring star dancer Kim Ki-min in the iconic role of 'La Mélodie' in Maurice Béjart's 'Boléro,' represent a significant cultural event. For Kim, a principal dancer with the Mariinsky Ballet, this engagement is the realization of a long-held dream. His candid remarks at the press conference, revealing the intense dedication and pressure he feels, offer a glimpse into the demanding world of professional ballet.

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I practiced for three hours a day without going to the bathroom or drinking water. I have never practiced one ballet for three hours.

Kim's self-deprecating humor, contrasting his own efforts with the legendary status of BBL's artistic director and choreographer, Gil Roman, belies the immense preparation involved. He spoke of practicing for three hours straight, foregoing basic needs like bathroom breaks, to embody the role. This level of commitment underscores the artistic integrity and the profound respect he holds for the BBL and Béjart's legacy. His repeated emphasis on focusing on the company ('BBL에 집중하라') rather than solely on his own performance highlights a deep appreciation for the collective artistry involved.

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When rehearsing with Julien, I couldn't practice the movements alone no matter how hard I tried. Yesterday, my mother watched the rehearsal and said, 'Julien is so good, why aren't you?'

From a South Korean perspective, Kim Ki-min's success on the international stage is a source of immense pride. His journey from a local Korean school to the prestigious Mariinsky Ballet and now to a guest leading role with the BBL is an inspiring narrative. The fact that he is the only Korean dancer in the BBL company, alongside another Korean dancer, Lee Min-kyung, performing a lead role in 'Hamlet,' further elevates the significance of this tour for local audiences. The Hankyoreh is proud to cover these events, showcasing the global reach of Korean artistic talent.

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I felt the energy of the 38 male dancers below me when the lead role is a solo dance on the table.

Artistic Director Gil Roman's warm reception of Kim and the BBL's willingness to integrate an external artist into such a pivotal role speak volumes about the company's spirit. Roman's description of the rehearsal process as a 'win-win experience' and his reflections on his own past performances in Korea add a personal touch to the cultural exchange. The BBL's 'Boléro,' with its unique staging and powerful choreography, promises to be a captivating spectacle, especially with Kim Ki-min at its center, embodying the intense energy and artistic vision of the legendary Béjart.

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It is very moving to come back to Korea as the artistic director of the ballet company after performing as a dancer here in 2011.