KoN returns as Paganini, violin in hand and drama in full swing
KoN plays Niccolò Paganini in the musical Paganini from June 20 to August 30, blending live violin, acting and song on stage.
Violinist KoN is returning to the stage in the musical 'Paganini.' In this production, opening on June 20, KoN will take on the role of Niccolò Paganini, performing acting, singing, and violin playing all at once.
The core of this casting is the actual performance. 'Paganini' is a work where not only the actor's emotional acting but also the violin performance on stage determines the character's persuasiveness.
Revealing Classical Roots on KBS 'Munhwa Gonggam'
KoN appeared on KBS Hanminjok Radio's 'Munhwa Gonggam' to introduce his musical world, which began in classical music and expanded into Gypsy music, jazz, and tango. Having attended Seoul Arts High School and Seoul National University College of Music, he has been active under the name 'Gypsy Violinist' based on authentic classical training.
He has been evaluated as a performer who maintains precise pitch and rapid technique while utilizing free breathing and improvisation by pushing and pulling the tempo. On the musical stage, his strength lies in being an actor who uses violin playing as a language for the scenes.
Playing Paganini in 2019, 2022, and 2024
KoN has also played the role of Paganini in 'Paganini' in 2019, 2022, and 2024. He previously met audiences as the Fiddler in 'Fiddler on the Roof.'
The 2026 season of 'Paganini' will be performed at the Hongik University Daehakro Art Center Grand Theater from June 20 to August 30. The performance duration is 160 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission.
The roles for Paganini include KoN, Hong Seok-gi, and Hong Ju-chan. The role of Lucio will be played by Kim Jong-gu, Kim Kyung-soo, and Yoon Hyung-ryeol, while the role of Colin Bonner will be played by Lee Jun-hyuk, Hwang Min-su, Cho Hoon, and Lee Seung-jun.
Featuring 'La Campanella' and '24 Caprices'
The production moves between Paris in 1836 and a French religious court in 1844, following the desires, misunderstandings, and the testimony of a son surrounding the genius violinist Paganini. Within the play, high-difficulty pieces such as 'La Campanella' and '24 Caprices,' which evoke Paganini, are arranged.
In an official video, KoN held his violin against a high backdrop, expressing the character's anxiety and pride through the performer's gestures. In this season, he must once again balance brilliant technique with drama. The performance will continue at the Hongik University Daehakro Art Center Grand Theater until August 30.
