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REVIEW: JOURNEY FREEDOM TOUR JAPAN 2024
by Ayaka Ozaki - November 18, 2024
Celebrating their 50th anniversary, the legendary American rock band JOURNEY made a triumphant return to Japan after seven years. Their Osaka performance on November 19, 2024, marked a resounding start to their tour, captivating the audience with iconic hits such as “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Open Arms,” and “Separate Ways.” The two-hour set left an indelible impression on all who attended.
FEATURE: 5 REASONS WHY KOICHI DOMOTO’S 'SHOCK' DESERVES GREATER RECOGNITION WORLDWIDE
by Ayaka Ozaki - November 15, 2024
Since its debut in 2000 with Koichi Domoto (KinKi Kids) (Click here to read Interview: Koichi Domoto & Yuma Nakayama on the Final Year of 'Endless SHOCK') as the lead, 'SHOCK' has maintained its place as a pinnacle of Japanese theater for over 20 years. Now a cultural phenomenon, Koichi’s role in 'SHOCK' goes beyond acting; he is also the creator, producer, and director of this iconic production. The show’s acclaim in Japan already speaks volumes, but it is truly worthy of wider recognition on the international stage. Here are five reasons why 'SHOCK' deserves to be embraced worldwide.
Review: YOASOBI 5TH ANNIVERSARY DOME LIVE SURREALISM at Kyosera Dome (Osaka)
by Ayaka Ozaki - November 14, 2024
YOASOBI: A unit consisting of composer Ayase and vocalist ikura, known for turning novels into music. Their debut song “Into the Night' reached an unprecedented 1 billion cumulative streaming plays, and their representative song “Idol,' surpassed 800 million plays, setting a record as the fastest in history. From 2020, they appeared on NHK's “Kohaku Uta Gassen(紅白歌合戦)” for three times, and in 2023, they conducted an Asia tour in five cities. Their first solo tour in the U.S. last year, sold out immediately, resonating their name worldwide. Here, we bring you the opening night of their first-ever dome live, held at Kyocera Dome on October 26.
特集:堂本光一主演『SHOCK』が世界でもっと評価されるべき5つの理由
by Ayaka Ozaki - November 14, 2024
2000年に堂本光一(KinKi Kids)(参照: インタビュー:堂本光一 & 中山優馬「Endless SHOCK」ラストイヤーへの意気込み)が初演して以来、20年以上にわたり日本舞台の頂点に君臨してきた『SHOCK』。今や一大文化現象とも言える存在である。堂本光一が主演だけでなく、作・構成・演出も兼ねて築き上げたこの舞台作品は、国内のみならず、国際的な舞台でも高い評価に値する。『SHOCK』がなぜこれほどまでに愛され、また世界にもっと広めるべきであるのか。その理由を5つの視点から紐解く。
Feature: MIDOSUJI RUNWAY 2024 & FESTIVAL OF THE LIGHTS IN OSAKA 2024 OPENING CEREMONY
by Ayaka Ozaki - November 13, 2024
The annual autumn spectacles “Midosuji Runway” and “Festival of the lights in Osaka” lit up the city of Osaka again this year. The main street, Midosuji, was transformed for one day into an extraordinary space filled with entertainment for “Midosuji Runway 2024,” while “Festival of the lights in Osaka 2024” illuminated the night in a fantastical display. Held on November 3, this festive event attracted a large crowd, with Japan’s top artists showcasing a series of captivating performances.
特集:御堂筋ランウェイ2024 & 大阪・光の饗宴2024開宴式
by Ayaka Ozaki - November 10, 2024
大阪の秋の風物詩として定着している「御堂筋ランウェイ」と「大阪・光の饗宴」が、今年も華やかに開催された。御堂筋のメインストリートが1日限りの非日常空間へと姿を変え、エンターテインメントが繰り広げられた「御堂筋ランウェイ2024」、そして大阪の夜を幻想的に彩る「光の饗宴2024」。11月3日の開催日には、多くの観客が集まり、日本を代表するアーティストたちがパフォーマンスを披露する華やかなイベントが展開された。
公演レポート:YOASOBI 5TH ANNIVERSARY DOME LIVE 超現実
by Ayaka Ozaki - November 01, 2024
YOASOBI:コンポーザーのAyase、ボーカルのikuraからなる“小説を音楽にするユニット”。2019年のデビュー曲『夜に駆ける』のストリーミング累計再生回数は史上初の10億回に達し、代表曲『アイドル』は8億回を史上最速で突破。2020年からは3度NHK紅白歌合戦に出場、2023年よりアジアツアーを5つの地域で実施した。昨年4月に開催したアメリカでの初単独ツアーは即完売するなど、世界中にその名を轟かせている。こちらでは10月26日に初日を迎えた初のドームライブ初日(京セラドーム公演)の様子をお届けする。
Student Blog: My Life in MP
by Student Blogger: Nanaka Bessho - October 27, 2024
Curious about what it's like to be part of an English-language theater group in Japan? In this blog, I’ll share my experience with MODEL PRODUCTION (MP), a student-led theater organization founded on the concept of “English through Drama.” MP is unique in Japan, where students communicate entirely in English while producing a full-scale musical. I participated as part of the costume and makeup team, learning how to navigate language barriers and production challenges along the way. I’ll also give you a preview of MP25’s theme, “Just Be You,” set to debut in May. If you're a student in Tokyo with a passion for theater, MP is an incredible community to be part of!
BACK TO THE FUTURE Announces Closing Date
by Nicole Rosky - October 24, 2024
The end is near for BACK TO THE FUTURE – The Musical. BroadwayWorld has just learned that the Olivier Award-winning Best Musical which has sold $244 million and 2.9 million tickets (Broadway, London, North American Tour) will play its final Broadway performance in January 2025.
Interview: WICKED Returns to Japan: Masae Ebata Takes on Elphaba Once Again
by Ayaka Ozaki - October 15, 2024
Masae Ebata: Playing Elphaba in the Osaka run of Shiki Theatre Company’s musical 'Wicked' (Click here to read Review: 'Wicked' - THE MAGIC RETURNS TO OSAKA by SHIKI THEATRE COMPANY-). Masae joined Shiki Theatre Company in 2005 after passing the audition. She made her stage debut in 'The Lion King,' later performing as Nala in both the Japan and Korea productions. Her major roles include Elphaba in 'Wicked', Donna Sheridan in 'Mamma Mia!,' Aida in 'Aida,' and Grizabella in 'CATS.' 'Wicked' reimagines the classic 'The Wizard of Oz' from the perspectives of two witches, Elphaba and Glinda. The musical is a grand spectacle, featuring Grammy-winning music and magnificent stage designs, continuing to captivate fans of all ages.
REVIEW: SNOW MAN'S SHOTA & SIXTONES' SHINTARO STARRING, DIRECTED BY KOICHI DOMOTO - 'DREAM BOYS'
by Ayaka Ozaki - October 14, 2024
'DREAM BOYS': Spectacular flying stunts and action sequences set the stage for a grand tale of irreplaceable friendship among dream-chasing boys. Following last year's success, Snow Man's Shota Watanabe returns as the lead, SixTONES' Shintaro Morimoto plays the role of the champion, and Koichi Domoto directs the production once again. Additionally, a group of 21 Shonen Ninja joins the cast, and the show opened at the Imperial Theatre on October 9th. 'DREAM BOYS' has been performed continuously for 20 years since its debut in 2004. Past leads include Kazuya Kamenashi (2004ー2012), Yuta Tamamori (2013ー2018), Yuta Kishi (2019ー2022), and Fuma Kikuchi (2021ー2022). Koichi Domoto has been directing the production since 2019.
公演レポート:SNOW MAN渡辺 & SIXTONES森本 出演、堂本光一演出「DREAM BOYS」
by Ayaka Ozaki - October 13, 2024
舞台「DREAM BOYS」:壮大なフライングやアクションを織り交ぜた、夢見る少年たちのかけがえのない友情の物語。昨年に続き今年はSnow Manの渡辺翔太が主演、SixTONESの森本慎太郎がチャンプ役を、堂本光一が演出を務める。さらに総勢21名の少年忍者も加わり、10月9日に帝国劇場で開幕した。「DREAM BOYS」は2004年より20年間継続されおり、歴代の主演は亀梨和也(2004~2012年)、玉森裕太(2013~2018年)、岸優太(2019~2022年)、菊池風磨(2021·2022年)。2019年の公演からは、堂本光一が演出を担当している。
独占インタビュー:劇団四季『ウィキッド』エルファバ役 江畑 晶慧
by Ayaka Ozaki - October 10, 2024
江畑 晶慧:劇団四季ミュージカル『ウィキッド』大阪公演(参照: 公演レポート:劇団四季『ウィキッド』- 再び大阪で魔法が動き出す -)でエルファバ役を務めている。江畑は2005年劇団四季オーディションに合格。『ライオンキング』で四季での初舞台を踏み、のちに日本・韓国両公演でナラ、『ウィキッド』エルファバ、『マンマ・ミーア!』ドナ・シェリダン、『アイーダ』アイーダ、『キャッツ』グリザベラなどを演じている。『ウィキッド』は名作『オズの魔法使い』を二人の魔女、エルファバとグリンダの視点から描いた作品。グラミー賞をはじめ数々の栄誉に輝く音楽、壮大な舞台装置が魅力の超大作であり、老若男女を問わず多くのファンを魅了し続けている。
Feature: DISNEY HALLOWEEN at Tokyo Disney Resort
by Ayaka Ozaki - October 09, 2024
Tokyo Disney Resort’s Halloween event continues to evolve each year, and 2024 is no exception. This year's theme spotlights Disney Villains, wrapping the entire park in a uniquely eerie yet energetic atmosphere with special programs to thrill visitors.
Review: THE MUSICAL CATCH ME IF YOU CAN in Japan
by Ayaka Ozaki - October 08, 2024
The Musical Catch Me if You Can : The musical adaptation of the classic film directed by Steven Spielberg, which starred Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hanks and garnered widespread acclaim. In Japan, it was performed in 2022, starring Hikaru Iwamoto, and directed by Ikko Ueda. The stylish choreography and memorable singing received garnered great praise. Following its original run, Hikaru reprises his role as the genius con artist Frank, showcasing his impressive singing, dancing, and acting skills. Eisaku Yoshida, a mainstay of Japanese television and film, continues in his role as the FBI agent Hanratty, who is determined to catch Frank.
公演レポート:ミュージカル『キャッチ・ミー・イフ・ユー・キャン』
by Ayaka Ozaki - October 07, 2024
ミュージカル『キャッチ·ミー·イフ·ユー·キャン』:スティーヴン·スピルバーグ監督、レオナルド·ディカプリオやトム·ハンクスが出演し話題となった名作映画のミュージカル版。2011年にブロードウェイに進出し、トニー賞で主演男優賞を受賞、計3部門にノミネートされるなど高い評価を得ている。日本では2022年に岩本照(Snow Man) 主演で上演され、演出の上田一豪が描くスタイリッシュなダンス・心に残る歌唱で大好評を博した。初演に続き主役の天才詐欺師フランクを演じるのは岩本照。確かな歌・ダンス・演技力を魅せる。フランクを追うFBI捜査官ハンラティは、日本のドラマ·映画界には欠かせない吉田栄作が続投。
特集:東京ディズニーリゾートが贈るディズニーハロウィーン
by Ayaka Ozaki - October 07, 2024
東京ディズニーリゾートのハロウィーンイベントは、毎年進化を遂げ、2024年もその例外ではない。今年のテーマはディズニー・ヴィランズ(悪役)を主役に据え、パーク全体を妖しくもエネルギッシュな雰囲気で包み込む特別なプログラムが展開されている。
Student Blog: Back to School
by Student Blogger: Nanaka Bessho - October 06, 2024
New semester, new adventures! While Japan’s academic year starts in April, this fall term is packed with exciting courses for me, from Japanese criminal law to art and literature. My favorite? A class on A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, which is giving me a rare chance to dive into Western classics. On top of that, I’ve just started guiding walking tours for foreign visitors around Tokyo’s theater districts. With tourism booming, I thought a tour focused on Japan’s unique theater culture, including its distinct musicals, would be something special. It’s been a rewarding way to share my passion while learning even more myself!
Review: DISNEY MUSIC & FIREWORKS 2024 in Osaka
by Ayaka Ozaki - October 01, 2024
Disney Music & Fireworks 2024: An entertainment show that combines Disney's beloved music with spectacular fireworks. The show features timeless Disney songs, with a special focus on “Frozen”, which celebrates its 10th anniversary since its release in Japan. These melodies are paired with powerful fireworks, creating a mesmerizing experience. The creative team, known for producing Japan's first-ever music fireworks, has employed cutting-edge technology to craft the show. Over 10,000 notes intertwine with the fireworks, painting the night sky in vibrant colors. The event will continue through November 30th in Yamanashi, Kagoshima, and Ibaraki.
公演レポート:ディズニー ミュージック & ファイヤーワークス 2024
by Ayaka Ozaki - September 27, 2024
ディズニー ミュージック & ファイヤーワークス 2024:ディズニーの名曲にのせて贈る、音楽と花火のエンターテイメントショー。日本公開から10周年を迎えた『アナと雪の女王』を中心に時代を超えて愛されるディズニー音楽の数々が、迫力ある花火とともに届けられる。日本で初めて音楽花火を制作したクリエイティブチームが、先端技術を用いて制作。数々の名曲が織りなす美しい旋律は1万を超える音色となり、花火を結びつけ夜空を彩る。11月30日まで山梨、鹿児島、茨城で開催予定。
Review : TOKYO DISNEYLAND'S NEW NIGHTTIME ENTERTAINMENT 'REACH FOR THE STARS'
by Ayaka Ozaki - September 25, 2024
Starting September 20, 2024, Tokyo Disneyland will introduce its new nighttime entertainment, 'Reach for the Stars.' This castle projection show, set against the backdrop of Cinderella Castle, portrays Disney and Pixar characters as they chase their dreams and forge their futures. Alongside beloved characters like those from 'Toy Story', 'Big Hero 6', and 'Hercules', the show also marks the debut appearance of Marvel heroes at Tokyo Disney Resort, delivering a grand adventure. With vibrant visuals, iconic Disney music, and pyrotechnic effects, the show offers an immersive experience, making guests feel as if they are soaring through the sky alongside their favorite characters.
公演レポート:東京ディズニーランド 新ナイトタイムエンターテイメント「REACH FOR THE STARS」
by Ayaka Ozaki - September 23, 2024
東京ディズニーランドでは、2024年9月20日より新しいナイトタイムエンターテイメント「Reach for the Stars」がスタート。シンデレラ城を舞台にしたキャッスルプロジェクションで、ディズニーやピクサーのキャラクターたちが夢を追い求め未来を切り開く姿を描く。「トイ・ストーリー」や「ベイマックス」、「ヘラクレス」といった人気キャラクターに加え、東京ディズニーリゾート初登場のマーベル映画のヒーローたちも登場し、壮大な冒険を繰り広げる。ディズニーの名曲に彩られた色鮮やかな映像や光、パイロの演出が臨場感あふれる体験を提供し、ゲストはまるでキャラクターたちと一緒に空を翔けているかのようなスリルを味わえる。
FEATURE: UNIVERSAL STUDIOS JAPAN BRINGS ADO AND ZOMBIES TOGETHER! HALLOWEEN MADNESS THAT NEVER STOPS
by Ayaka Ozaki - September 14, 2024
​​​​​​​Universal Studios Japan’s 2024 Halloween event: In the daytime, you'll party with cute Pokémon and experience the exciting stage performance that goes far beyond your imagination! At night, Commander Ado and her 'Security Force' make their grand debut. You won't just be screaming as zombies close in on you, you'll also be diving into a new, hair-raising whirlpool of fear! Then, you can revitalize yourself by dancing with the zombies! Plus, with 'Resident Evil,' 'Chainsaw Man,' and 'Hami-Kuma,' this year's Halloween lineup will bring unpredictable excitement all day long!
特集:USJでAdo隊長とゾンビに挑む!昼も夜も止まらないハロウィーンの熱狂
by Ayaka Ozaki - September 08, 2024
ユニバーサル・スタジオ・ジャパン ハロウィーン・イベント2024:昼、かわいいポケモンたちのパーティでは、想像をはるかに超える激アツのステージにシビレまくり!夜は”Ado”が隊長の“治安部隊”が初登場。迫りくるゾンビに絶叫…だけでなく、自ら恐怖の渦にダイブする新体験にゾクゾク!からの、ゾンビと踊って超スッキリ!!さらにバイオハザード™もハミクマも…今年のハロウィーンは、一日中すべてが予測不能!
Photo/Video: Michael Greif Makes a Surprise Appearance at the RENT Japan Tour 2024 Opening Night Curtain Call
by Larisa Amaya-Baron - August 26, 2024
Tony Award® nominated director Michael Greif graced the stage at the RENT Japan Tour 2024 opening night curtain call. The full cast and crew were joined in song to reprise Seasons of Love; sharing a message of international collaboration with the audience. This production is playing in Japan until September 15th, in English with Japanese subtitles.

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