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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.
Review: RENT JAPAN TOUR 2024 at Tokyu Theatre Orb by Larisa Amaya-Baron
- August 22, 2024 Director Trey Ellett brings American cast of RENT to Japan for limited run in Tokyo and Osaka. Led by Japanese actors Koji Yamamoto (reprising his role as Mark) and Crystal Kay (as Maureen). The show plays in English with Japanese subtitles. Tokyo performances run August 21 - September 8, 2024. Osaka performances run September 11 - 15, 2024.
Review: WICKED - THE MAGIC RETURNS TO OSAKA by SHIKI THEATRE COMPANY- by Ayaka Ozaki
- August 19, 2024 The BROADWAY MUSICAL Wicked: This work reimagines the classic 'The Wizard of Oz' from the perspectives of two witches, Elphaba and Glinda. It emphasizes the importance of respecting different ways of life and the strength to choose one's own path, leaving audiences deeply moved. The musical is a grand spectacle, featuring Grammy-winning music, dazzling costumes, and magnificent stage designs, continuing to captivate fans of all ages.
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 - by Ayaka Ozaki
- August 19, 2024 ミュージカル『ウィキッド』: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。異なる生き方を尊重し、自らの意志で道を選ぶ強さをテーマに、観客に感動を与える。グラミー賞をはじめ数々の栄誉に輝く音楽、煌びやかな衣装、そして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。
Review : Disney on Ice “Find Your Gift” - Bringing Disney's Classics to Life by Ayaka Ozaki
- August 16, 2024 Disney on Ice 'Find Your Gift': This year's Disney on Ice guides the audience through beloved Disney worlds, including 'Tangled,' 'Beauty and the Beast,' and 'The Little Mermaid,' led by Mickey Mouse and his friends. Beneath a sky filled with floating lanterns, Rapunzel, with her long hair, uncovers the truth hidden in the light. The intelligent and beautiful Belle, who harbors loneliness in her heart, finds her inner light and meets the Beast. Ariel, yearning for the world on land, falls in love with Prince Eric. Making its debut this year is 'Encanto,' where the Madrigal family showcases their unique magical gifts set to rhythmic music. The breathtaking fusion of world-class skating, Disney's iconic songs, dazzling costumes, and vibrant lighting creates an unforgettable experience.
公演レポート:ディズニー・オン・アイス “Find Your Gift” - 氷上で輝くディズニーの名作 - by Ayaka Ozaki
- August 15, 2024 ディズニー・オン・アイス “Find Your Gift”:今年のディズニー・オン・アイスではミッキーマウスたちが、「塔の上のラプンツェル」「美女と野獣」「リトル・マーメイド」など、愛されるディズニー作品の世界へ導く。満天に広がるランタンのもと、灯りに秘められた真実を知るのは長い髪のラプンツェル。聡明で美しいベルは心に孤独を抱えながらも自分の輝きを信じ、野獣と出会う。陸の世界に憧れるアリエルは、人間の王子エリックと出会い恋に落ちる。初登場「ミラベルと魔法だらけの家」では、リズミカルな楽曲に乗せ、マドリガル家が個性豊かな'魔法のギフト'を披露。世界レベルのスケーティングに、ディズニーの名曲、華やかな衣装、色鮮やかな照明が美しく融合し、心にいつまでも残る体験をお届けている。
公演レポート:ブロードウェイ・ミュージカル「天使にラブ・ソングを~シスター・アクト」 by Ayaka Ozaki
- August 09, 2024 ブロードウェイ・ミュージカル「天使にラブ・ソングを~シスター・アクト」:愛され続ける映画『天使にラブ・ソングを…』で主演を務めたウーピー・ゴールドバーグ自身がプロデュースし、ミュージカル化が実現。2011年にブロードウェイで開幕するとトニー賞5部門にノミネート、世界で600万人以上を動員し大ヒットを記録。生き方が異なる女性たちが歌と音楽を通じて友情を育む感動のストーリーは、映画のまま。ミュージカルならではのエネルギッシュな生歌が、何度でも味わいたくなる劇場体験を与えてくれる。2015年の初来日と2017年の再来日公演は連日満員。今回7年ぶりに、新演出とグレードアップした来日版史上最大のスケールで帰ってきた。
Review: BROADWAY MUSICAL 'SISTER ACT' by Ayaka Ozaki
- August 09, 2024 Broadway Musical 'Sister Act': The beloved film “Sister Act,” starring Whoopi Goldberg, was brought to the stage with Goldberg herself as producer. When it opened on Broadway in 2011, it was nominated for five Tony Awards and attracted over six million attendees worldwide, becoming a huge hit. The touching story of women from different walks of life who foster friendship through song and music remains faithful to the film. The musical's dynamic live performances offer an exhilarating theater experience that audiences will want to relive repeatedly. The initial 2015 Japan tour and its 2017 return were sold out daily. This time, after seven years, the show is back with new direction and the largest-scale production ever for its Japan tour.
Review: 'ENDLESS SHOCK' - CREATED, COMPOSED, DIRECTED, AND STARRING KOICHI DOMOTO by Ayaka Ozaki
- August 08, 2024 Endless SHOCK: A historic stage production starring Koichi Domoto (KinKi Kids) (Click here to read Interview: Koichi Domoto & Yuma Nakayama on the Final Year of 'Endless SHOCK') that has been ongoing since 2000. This year, the show opened on April 11 at the Imperial Theatre in Tokyo, with Koichi not only starring but also taking on the roles of creator, composer, and director. The total number of SHOCK performances has surpassed 2000, and Koichi holds the record for the most performances by a single actor in Japan. Due to its immense popularity, it is often referred to as 'the hardest theatre ticket to get in Japan.' This year's performance marks Koichi’s final appearance in the starring role. The major rival roles in the production will be played by Shori Sato (timelesz) for the April to May (Imperial Theatre) and September (Hakataza Theater) performances, Yuma Nakayama (Click here to read Interview: Koichi Domoto & Yuma Nakayama on the Final Year of 'Endless SHOCK') for the July to August (Umeda Arts Theater) performances, and Tatsuya Ueda (KAT-TUN) for the November (Imperial Theatre) performances.