In 2017, Julian Kim returned to Teatro La Fenice to perform in La bohème, presented in Francesco Micheli’s imaginative 2011 staging. The production opened with a whimsical vision of Paris at the end of the 19th century, framed by a glowing proscenium curtain and outlined landmarks that suggested a nostalgic, slightly theatrical postcard. As Act II began, the atmosphere shifted into a more vibrant and stylized interpretation of a bustling city. Designer Edoardo Sanchi reimagined the setting as a place of movement and modernity — with crowds emerging from a symbolic metro entrance and the stage animated by large-scale advertisements and bold visual contrasts. The blend of historical charm and artistic exaggeration gave the production a unique personality, balancing sentiment with flair.