Performed mainly by using a traditional “Korean mask” is a dance style originating from East Asia known as Cheoyongmu. This “mask” dance is said to have originated in Korea, and is considered to be one of oldest dance styles in the Korean culture. It is said to have been created during a period called “Unified Silla”. Furthermore, this dance is also performed mainly to ward off evil spirits at the end of year, and hence is considered to “shamanistic” in nature.
a. History/origin of Cheoyongmu:
A popular legend states that, a king called Hogang was once passing through a seacoast located alongside a forest. It was at this moment that heavy fog began to envelope the surrounding forest area. Worried about the fog, the king asked for guidance from his astrologer. In response, the astrologer said that since this fog was created by the “Dragon of the Eastern Sea” who appears to be angry, and so it would be wise to impress him. And so to please him the king and his followers constructed a temple honouring the dragon. Furthermore, this effort pleased the dragon, and he along with seven sons sang and danced before the king to express their happiness, and it is the dance created that was then called Cheoyongmu. Unfortunately, though while expressing gratitude one of the sons of the dragon called Choyong angered the spirit of the disease “plague”, who in turn cursed him saying that if ever saw his face anywhere on earth again he would never visit that place again. And so it was for this reason then that people began using masks to perform this dance.
b. Costumes used in the Cheoyongmu:
The costumes used in this dance by the performers (mainly male) include a dress comprising of colours such as black, blue, red, and yellow. Furthermore, the specific dress colour worn by the performer indicates a specific direction. For example, black represents the north. In addition, light wine coloured facial masks are also used by the performers as a part of their costume.
c. Music involved in the Cheoyongmu:
The musical instrument used in this dance includes a six stringed zither, dulcimer, two stringed fiddle, horizontal flute, conical oboe, and the glass drum.
d. Training availability and the technique involved in the Cheoyongmu:
In terms of technique, this mainly involves the use of “vigorous” body movements. As for training centres/schools, there are none available around the world since this “mask” dance is mainly performed in Korea.