Jeong Seon-a & Cha Ji-yeon's 14+ Rating Controversy

The musical "Tamara de Lempicka" has faced criticism for including inappropriate scenes, such as smoking in front of child actors and sexually suggestive dialogue, despite its "14 and over" rating. While the 150-minute performance features talented actors like Jeong Seon-a, Cha Ji-yeon, and Jo Hyeong-gyun, and boasts elaborate stage sets, concerns have been raised about its suitability for middle school students.

The musical "Tamara de Lempicka" is set during the Russian Revolution and World Wars, exploring the desires, love, and artistic world of painter Tamara de Lempicka. It depicts Lempicka's journey to find her artistic self and her true identity, beginning to paint for survival.

After fleeing the Russian Revolution to Paris, France, Lempicka begins painting to make a living and expands her artistic horizons. Her work gains popularity among Parisian high society and the art world. Upon meeting the free-spirited Rafaela and making her a model, Lempicka experiences complex emotions beyond art, leading to domestic turmoil.

The stage direction enhanced the intensity of its premiere in Asia. Lempicka's iconic works, such as "Self-Portrait with Bugatti" and "Beautiful Rafaela," were projected onto the stage, creating the feel of a personal exhibition. A massive steel structure symbolizing the Eiffel Tower and Lempicka and Rafaela's studios were depicted cozily. The lighting created a glamorous atmosphere akin to a concert hall or jazz bar, justifying its nomination for Best Scenic Design at the 2024 Tony Awards. The casting of Cha Ji-yeon, Lyn, and Son Seung-yeon as Rafaela showcased their rich vocal range and deep tones, demonstrating high synchronicity with the character.

However, questions have been raised about its "14 and over" rating. In Act 1, the first intimate scene between Lempicka and Rafaela, who are both women, was depicted in detail. A male actor made a gesture pointing to his body parts while saying the line, "a piece of merchandise." Furthermore, scenes included Rafaela smoking in front of Lempicka's daughter and blowing cigarette smoke into her mouth. Act 2 featured more explicit sexual dialogue, such as, "I wish I had something useful for my entrance," and "I like handcuffs." Given that a child actor plays Lempicka's daughter, there are significant concerns about the impact these scenes could have on the young performer.