Behind the scenes of the Children’s Theater Company’s fast-paced and noisy show “Cookin'”

MINNEAPOLIS — An exciting show that the whole family can enjoy and which will make the audience want to know more!

“Cookin’” is an iconic show that debuted in Korea and wowed audiences around the world. Now it is performed at the Children’s Theater Company of Minneapolis.

The show tells the story of four chefs preparing a meal for a wedding under tight deadlines. There are no words, just the rhythm of a busy, noisy kitchen that sometimes sounds like a rock show. The only instruments are knives, poles and other kitchen utensils.

“You see, all the utensils and vegetables are real,” explained director Seung-Whan Song. “It’s something we also get at the grocery store, so it’s the same one you eat in your kitchen.”

These chefs do more than just cut, slice, and cook—they’re also dancers and musicians, showcasing Korean culture in ways people might never have seen. On stage is a traditional prayer totem called Jangseung.

“So there are two things that we would like to point out. There is one thing that is very special about the work of Koreans in this field, and that is: are they really working? Or are they playing in space? is the very typical Korean way of working in the office, but it’s the same in the kitchen,” Song said. Production supervisor Kate Park helped translate.

“The second will be the use of the Korean rhythm tradition called samulnori,” Song explained. “It’s a very special piece that you’ve never really heard of anywhere else in the world and you’ll hear a lot about the samulnori on stage.”

The music – along with the deadlines the conductors must meet – fuel the tense but fun atmosphere throughout the theater – an atmosphere they expect to connect with the audience.

“Because you’re going to feel good, is it going to be done at the right time, is it going to be in the right direction, everything is coming together, you’re going to feel like you’re cooking for the wedding,” Park said. .

It’s fitting that “Cookin'” is on stage at the Children’s Theater Company, given its power to bring out the child in us.

“So at the top of the show we have a slideshow on how to enjoy it. We say relax and enjoy it. Don’t think too much,” Park added.

“Cookin’” is on stage until October 22. Tickets start at just $15.