Why K-pop Boyband B1A4 Went for a Smaller Concert Hall, Performing for 5 Days?

B1A4 chose a small venue for their five-day concert 'Amazing Store.'

B1A4 is a popular idol group with a huge fandom made up of mostly girls. It was been three years since their debut in 2011, and they're having their second solo concert 'B1A4 Limited Show - Amazing Store.' It will last five days from August 5 to August 11. They invited reporters to experience a small portion of their concert.

'5 day concerts will allow us to see our fans for a longer period of time'

What is most unusual about this concert is that B1A4 decided to forgo an enormous concert hall and instead chose UNIQLO's Ax Hall in Gwangjin, Seoul, which fits only about 2,000 people.

B1A4 decided to have their concert for five days instead of the usual two days so that they could meet more of their fans. Also, to match the concert's 'Limited' title, each day's performance will feature a different member of the group. Leader Jinyoung confidently said, 'We have been working on this concert for six months. We had to plan the directing, arranging, and concept to match the smaller concert hall.' Shinwoo said, 'Just like our concert title, each day we will feature a special limited performance.'

Baro said, 'We were excited when we decided to have a 5 day concert because it meant we would get to see our fans longer. Last year's 2 day concert left me wanting more. I was so happy for the opportunity to show our fans all the things we've been preparing for these five days. We had our first performance yesterday and the reaction was great. I am looking forward to the next four days. I want to make a lot of precious memories.'

'Amazing Store' is a concept created by B1A4 about a doll on display at a toy shop that turns into a human by some mysterious force. The stage is decorated with small details that create a greater impression. By the members' request they created a set to look like a forest, and painted the ceilings to make it look like the night sky. They even had insects and wind sounds to complete the set. Baro said, 'Although it is a smaller scale than last year, the members and staff had many more meetings to discuss ideas. We thought a lot about how we should present our stage and skills to our fans.'

The acclaimed music drama that was presented at last year's first concert will be shown at this year's concert too. Sandeul revealed, 'Although the stories showcase the members' actual personalities and thoughts, we also fabricated a lot of details to make it more interesting for the audience. The closer stage will allow fans to see each individual member's detailed acting skills.

They want school supplies instead of flowers

As an idol group that holds an unconventional storytelling concert, there are many things the members realized. Even before their debut B1A4 has gained a lot of interest because the members actually compose and write their own lyrics for the songs. For the past six months they worked on the overall concept, story line, directing, and song-writing to create their own world. Unlike last year's performance that was set to a previously recorded music track, this year's performance will feature a live band.

B1A4 admitted that they were able to exercise and increase their talent during the concert preparation. Shinwoo said, 'Since the concert will feature an all live band and not a music recording, we learned a lot about ensembles.' Jinyoung added, 'Originally we had written the songs for a band, so we had to rewrite them for a live band. As we worked with the staff in listening and modifying the songs, we learned a lot musically.'

Another interesting thing to note about B1A4's concert is that they have requested fans to donate school supplies instead of bringing flowers. Before the concert their agency announced, 'Although we are grateful for your cheering and flowers, we want to work together with our fans to create a difference by taking donations and distributing them to others. We hope that this will raise cultural awareness, no matter how small.

Gongchan said, 'We're embarrassed for B1A4 to be calling a leading stone.' He humbly said, 'During our past interactions we've had the chance to watch movies with poor friends and have a good time with people that aren't completely healthy. And we're grateful that many people look upon us kindly for that.' Sandeul said, 'Although it may seem like we are helping others, we are actually the ones being encouraged,' explaining their desire to do help others.

Tags
B1A4
AMAZING STORE
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