SamulNori: New Life to Korean Traditions

A program of nonstop drumming, cymbal bashing and stylized dancing may not sound like a choice way to spend an evening. But Friday’s concert by SamulNori at the Veterans Wadsworth Theater was a mesmerizing experience.

SamulNori is a contemporary version of the wandering entertainers called Namsadang, who once roamed the villages of Korea providing entertainment and performing exorcisms and crop ceremonies. Under the direction of drummer Kim Duk Soo, the six-member group has pioneered efforts to revive and preserve ancient Korean traditions.

But there was nothing museum-like about SamulNori’s performance. The first half of the concert was dedicated to several incredibly complex numbers for various drums and gongs. The energy level of the music was astonishing, teeming with a flow of rhythm that pulsed and breathed with life.

After intermission, the musicians became dancers. Wearing hats topped with long streamers, they produced swirling patterns of color as they leaped and spun around the stage. In an especially dynamic moment, one of the performers charged into a series of rolling spins that were so weightless and agile they seemed to defy gravity. It was a fitting climax to an evening of spirited, life-affirming music and dance.

* SamulNori performs Wednesday and Thursday at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 12700 Center Court Drive, Cerritos, 8 p.m. $20, $16 ($12 for children). (310) 916-8500.