From October 1-10, 2004 the ancient city of Andong will bring to life ancient stories passed down from generation to generation, during the annual Andong Mask Dance Festival. Commemorating traditional Confucian culture, the festival presents a combination of dance and theater, and features performances of all 13 of Korea's nationally recognized mask dances. Various international mask dances are also presented. Visitors to the festival may also enjoy mask dance lessons, traditional Korean classical music performances, mask-making programs, Korean puppet shows, and Seonyujuulbulnori, a special form of Korean fireworks. Many of Korea’s mask dance dramas originated in Andong, where people have been performing these dramas since the middle of the 12th century. The dramas were often used to insult and mock the titled class, while others showed the dilemmas of love triangles and lower class struggles. One of the most popular attractions in Andong City is the Hahoe Folk Village, where visitors may enjoy the mask dance drama year round. At the village, which has been designated as an Historic Preservation Site, the culture of yangban (noblemen of the Joseon Dynasty) has been especially well preserved. Nearly 130 of the traditional homes here have been inhabited by generations of the same families. For more information, contact the Korea National Tourism Organization at 800/TOUR-KOR(ea) or visit the website at www.tour2korea.com.