Actor Lee Sang-yi is making his return to the theater stage as the protagonist, Will Shakespeare, in the play 'Shakespeare in Love' after 2 years.
The play 'Shakespeare in Love' is a romantic drama based on the 1998 film of the same name, which won 7 Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and imagines that 'Romeo and Juliet' was born from Shakespeare's real-life love.
The story depicts how the great playwright Shakespeare, during a slump, meets a woman and through their love, creates the immortal masterpiece 'Romeo and Juliet', portrayed in a delightful and romantic manner, receiving much acclaim. Since its premiere in the West End of London in 2014, it has been performed in various countries around the world, and it had its Korean premiere in 2023.
Following the 2023 premiere, Lee Sang-yi will reprise his role as Will Shakespeare in 'Shakespeare in Love' in 2025. The Will Shakespeare portrayed by Lee is a promising playwright with ambition and passion, depicted as an unstable young artist searching for love and artistic inspiration, unlike the great playwright we know.
Lee Sang-yi gained explosive popularity in 2023 for his role as Will Shakespeare in 'Shakespeare in Love'. With a solid acting spectrum developed across various genres, powerful vocal delivery, and an attractive voice, he showcased overwhelming stage presence and received rave reviews.
Lee expressed the multifaceted character of Will Shakespeare, from the human anxieties of ambition, passion, and artistic longing to the tremors and frustrations of youth deeply in love, enhancing the audience's immersion with his delicate emotional performance. His unique acting drew not only young audiences but also various generations to the play 'Shakespeare in Love', creating a buzz.
Lee Sang-yi has built a solid filmography by crossing various fields, including 'Once Again', 'Youth of May', 'Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha', 'Hunting Dogs', 'My Demon', 'I Don't Want to Lose', and 'The Boss's Diet Plan'. As he ambitiously returns to the theater stage after 2 years, there is great interest in what differentiating aspects his portrayal of Will Shakespeare in the 2025 'Shakespeare in Love' will bring.
Lee stated, “I was so sad and disappointed that the last performance during the 2023 premiere was over, as I poured so much affection into this work. I am grateful to be returning as Shakespeare again. I am already excited about the opportunity to communicate and connect with the audience once more as Will Shakespeare pursues dreams and love in search of happiness. I hope you will share this precious time with us,” expressing his joy at reuniting with 'Shakespeare in Love'.
The play 'Shakespeare in Love', where Lee transforms into the legendary literary genius Shakespeare, will be performed at the CJ Towol Theater in the Seoul Arts Center from July 5 to September 14.
