Performance arts in Japan are traditionally thought of being rich in culture and history with the most common being kabuki, an all male theatre where men take the roles of both sexes. Perhaps as a counterbalance to kabuki, another less commonly known style of performance arts was born in Japan that features women taking on male and female roles. This is called the Takarazuka Revue, a glamorous and vibrant style of performance with an impressive history spanning over 100 years.
As the performance style is still relatively unknown internationally, Takarazuka Revue is inviting foreigners especially to come visit over the next two shows at a discount and share your experiences. In October, the famous Moon troupe is performing their take on the musical King Arthur. This is originally based on the French musical "La Legende Du Roi Arthur" which has been a global smash since launching last year in France.
The story should be familiar to most and follows the famous exploits of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table as he defends his Kingdom and meets the beautiful Lady Guinevere who eventually has her fate intertwined with the young Lancelot. Ryo Tamaki takes the lead role of King Arthur and Reika Manaki takes the role of Lady Guinevere. Having both King Arthur and Guinevere played by female leads will certainly add an interesting twist to the show.
Takarazuka Revue is grouped in to five separate performance troupes. These groups are broken down into the Flower, Moon, Snow, Star and Cosmos and each group consist of several famous stars who specialize into playing either men's or women's parts, but rarely both.
Takarazuka has two main performance theatres in Japan. Originally founded in Hyogo, the Takarazaka Grand Theatre is the original location, rich with history, and serves as the troupe home. The second theatre and home is the Tokyo Takarazuka theatre which is more modern and just as grand in appearance. For this special foreign appearance, they are opening up Bunkyo Civic Hall which is located in Tokyo, nearby Korakuen Station and Kasuga Station in the area of the Tokyo Dome.
Exclusive Foreigner Special Option - 1,000 Yen Discount and Free Giveaway for Showing Pamphlet
- Musical: “King Arthur” by moon troupe
- Theatre: Bunkyo Civic Hall (Korakuen/Kasuga Station)
- Dates: October 15th (Sat), 3:30 p.m. / October 16th (Sun) 11:00am
- Seat & Price: A rank seats - 5,000 yen (normally 6,000 yen)
Tickets must be purchased in advance on the special website listed here:
http://w.pia.jp/a/arthur (English)
IMPORTANT: Deadline for reservation is October 8th!
I couldn't care less about any discounts. I would pay full price to see them because they are worth it!