[INTERVIEW] Solar shines brighter in her second run in 'Mata Hari'

By Pyo Kyung-min

Solar, a decade into her K-pop career, is taking on a fresh challenge in the form of musical theater. As she reprises the title role in the Korean musical "Mata Hari," the MAMAMOO vocalist shared how this venture has both challenged her and spurred personal and professional growth.

Solar, 33, debuted in 2014 as part of the K-pop girl group MAMAMOO alongside bandmates Hwasa, Wheein and Moonbyul, with the group rising to instant stardom for its powerful vocal performances.

But for Solar, stepping into musical theater was an entirely new challenge.

First joining "Mata Hari" during its 2022 run, produced by EMK Musical Company, Solar has since been working tirelessly to establish herself as a musical actor.

"Mata Hari," written by Ivan Menchell and composed by Frank Wildhorn, is a musical inspired by the true story of the famed dancer-turned-spy who was executed during World War I. In the show, Solar plays the enigmatic Mata Hari, a performer who captivates the audience with her sensual dances while concealing the personal scars of her past.

Speaking with The Korea Times at EMK's headquarters in Seoul's Gangnam District on Monday, Solar said she feels a personal connection to the character.

"On stage, Mata Hari is a mesmerizing figure, but offstage, she's tender and shy. That's how I imagined her," the singer said.

"She was said to have staged groundbreaking performances for her time — something no one else had dared to do ... I also enjoy trying out new things, even if they seem eccentric or unconventional and even if I face criticism for it. That's one way I feel connected to her."

Solar’s musical theater debut in 2022 received mixed reviews. While her vocal talents, honed during her years with MAMAMOO, were widely acknowledged, critics noted that she lacked a commanding stage presence and acting finesse.

"I did my best during the 2022 run, but I received feedback pointing out areas for improvement. I took those critiques positively and worked hard to address them," Solar said.

"Back then, I was just focused on getting everything right — delivering every line and move as rehearsed. This time, I feel more at ease and can explore emotions, acting and singing in different ways, letting the story guide me."

For Solar, delving into theatrical acting has been an exhilarating journey.

"At first, embodying someone else's life felt unnatural. But as I dug deeper into Mata Hari's character, I started to feel like I had become her, which was thrilling. Dancing as Mata Hari on stage feels completely different from dancing as Solar," she said.

The singer said she is learning to adapt her vocal techniques to meet the standards of musical theater.

"As a singer, I've always used sensitive microphones, like handheld mics or studio mics, which suit a particular vocal style," she said. "But in musicals, you need to project to the audience. During my previous stint in 2022, some said my singing on stage felt like Solar was singing, not Mata Hari."

"That feedback, though critical, helped me improve. I've since been receiving vocal coaching to adjust my delivery."

She added that her work in musical theater has also strengthened her skills as a singer.

"After performing in musicals, I've noticed my breathing and vocal stability have improved when I sing pop songs."

Describing herself as someone who thrives on challenges, the singer expressed that reprising her role in "Mata Hari" is part of her broader effort to evolve as an artist.

"When I released my solo album, I shaved my head and even tried straight brows — things that made people wonder why I'd do such things. But I don't regret those choices. They were valuable experiences and good memories," Solar said.

"Right now, I'm working toward becoming a polished musical actor. I want to earn the trust of musical fans, making them call me an 'actor worth watching.' I'm determined to reach that level."

"Mata Hari" runs through March 2 at the LG Arts Center in western Seoul.