NBS and Sion Celebrate Recognition for 'Imaginary Packing'
In a remarkable achievement, the variety show
'Imaginary Packing', co-produced by
NBS Nagano Broadcasting and
Sion, recently received the prestigious
Galaxy Award for Excellence in the 62nd edition of this annual event. The series aired through the Fuji TV network and showcased a unique format that allowed participants to engage in imaginative travel experiences.
Hosted by MCs
Satou Shiori and
Yokozawa Natsuko, the show features a cast of intriguing personalities including
Yasuko, a comedian,
Noguchi Ken, an adventurous mountaineer, and
Komatsu Miwa, a modern artist. These three figures embark on what they term an “imaginary journey,” where the only limit is their imagination. The premise invites audiences to envision the opportunities of freely traveling to any destination, meeting people who may not be accessible in reality.
Broadcast and Awards
The series has garnered significant accolades, including recognition from the
FNS Soft Factory, where it took home the
Excellence Award—an honor reflecting the competitive production capabilities of Fuji TV network affiliates. The
Galaxy Awards celebrate outstanding achievements in television, radio, commercials, and news reporting across the Japanese broadcasting spectrum, spearheaded by the Broadcast Critique Association, which aims to elevate the standards of Japanese broadcasting culture.
Concept and Experience
The intriguing format of 'Imaginary Packing' invites individuals to indulge in their fantasies about travel. Participants are encouraged to visualize their dream destinations and the type of adventures they would embark upon. Specific prompts, such as “What if you could travel freely to the past or future?” or “What if you could meet someone you cannot meet in reality?” drive the creative engagement.
Once the participants set their imaginary trip scenarios, they engage in a tangible process—packing a suitcase with items they believe would be necessary for their adventure. After meticulously preparing for their imaginary journey, they retreat to a minimalist white room to reflect and speculate on their fantasies. Viewers are left captivated by the expressions and stories of these 'travelers' as they return from their mental escapades.
Incredible Cast
The show features a dynamic and engaging cast:
- - Yokozawa Natsuko (MC)
- - Satou Shiori (MC)
- - Noguchi Ken (Mountaineer, in VTR segments)
- - Yasuko (Comedian, in VTR segments)
- - Komatsu Miwa (Modern Artist, in VTR segments)
- - Suzuki An (Narrator)
Chief Producer,
Ito Haruhiko from NBS, has put together a talented team, as creatively orchestrated by
Uechi Junichi, the director and producer. The contributions of staff from
Sion, including
Iwamoto Masanao and
Kodama Yoshizumi among others, have been pivotal in the execution and experience surrounding the production.
About Sion
With over 30 years of experience in television production,
Sion prides itself on its imaginative power, production capabilities, and casting strength, having produced numerous hit shows and received various awards, including the Galaxy Award and the ATP Excellence Award. Recently, they have extended their services into the digital realm, leveraging their robust expertise in variety show production, and offering new services like