시민의 주체적 참여와 사회적 실천으로서의 셰익스피어: 마들시민극단의 <리어, 파고다 공원에 오다>를 중심으로

Abstract

This study examines the transformative potential of Shakespearean applied theatre in contemporary Korean society, focusing on the Madeul Citizen Theatre Company’s Lear Comes to Pagoda Park (2021, 2024). By reimagining King Lear through the lens of Korea’s aging population, social isolation, and generational conflict, the production reinterprets Shakespeare’s universal themes to resonate deeply with modern audiences. It demonstrates how Shakespeare, often regarded as a symbol of elite culture, can serve as a medium for community dialogue, social critique, and cultural transformation. The production empowered actors to draw from their personal experiences, actively shaping the creative process rather than passively performing. This study highlights how the performance addressed urgent societal issues, such as elder poverty and familial neglect, while simultaneously fostering personal growth and self-expression among its participants. Its influence extended beyond the stage, allowing senior actors to reconstruct their social identities and redefine their roles within the community. Through performance analysis, interviews with the director and actors, and a close examination of the adaptation, this study underscores the capacity of Shakespearean applied theatre to merge universal themes with local contexts. The findings demonstrate its effectiveness as a tool for community engagement and social change, affirming the continued relevance of Shakespeare in addressing contemporary challenges.