Winners of the 3rd Ito Kisaku Memorial Prize Announced!
In an exciting announcement for the world of stage arts, the winners of the 3rd Ito Kisaku Memorial Prize have been chosen. The prize ceremony, which recognizes outstanding contributions to the field of stage design, will be held from April 15 to April 26, 2026, at the Tokyo Arts Theatre Atelier West. The selection process took place on April 20, with a panel of seven judges from both inside and outside the association carefully reviewing the entries.
This annual recognition is part of a legacy that began in 1967 following the death of the association's first president, Ito Kisaku, established by his friends in an effort to honor significant achievements in stage arts. After the Hiroshi Association concluded their own recognitions in 1973, the current association adopted its name and objectives, positioning itself as the only specialized award for stage design in Japan. The awards were rebranded to the "Ito Kisaku Memorial Prize" in 2021 to foster further development in stage arts.
Ito Kisaku, born on August 1, 1899, is regarded as a pioneer in Japanese stage design. He made his debut in stage art in 1925 at the Tsukiji Little Theatre with the play "Julius Caesar," contributing to a plethora of genres including new theatre, kabuki, opera, musicals, and dance. He established the stage art department at the Actor's Theatre Company in 1953 and had a prolific career until his passing in 1967 at the age of 67.
The prize encompasses all forms of theatrical representations performed over a two-year review period, focusing on stage design, including sets, costumes, props, wigs, and makeup.
The award ceremony is set for May 25, 2026, at the Kinokuniya Hall. This event promises to celebrate the creative contributions to the arts and inspire future generations in the realm of theatrical design.
Winners of the Awards
- - Grand Prize: The opera "The Beautiful Daughter of the Watermill" awarded to Hiroko Matsuo.
- - Newcomer Award: The musical "Home" by The Music Stage and the Tokyo Nikikai production of "The Flying Dutchman" awarded to Yuto Kubota.
- - Encouragement Award: The production "Little Koenji: The Arrival of Umizoko Island! - Setting Sail for the Connecting Tour" awarded to Misaki Negoro and Aya Matsumura.
- - Special Award: Awarded to Kyoko Shimokura.
This annual recognition is part of a legacy that began in 1967 following the death of the association's first president, Ito Kisaku, established by his friends in an effort to honor significant achievements in stage arts. After the Hiroshi Association concluded their own recognitions in 1973, the current association adopted its name and objectives, positioning itself as the only specialized award for stage design in Japan. The awards were rebranded to the "Ito Kisaku Memorial Prize" in 2021 to foster further development in stage arts.
The Legacy of Ito Kisaku
Ito Kisaku, born on August 1, 1899, is regarded as a pioneer in Japanese stage design. He made his debut in stage art in 1925 at the Tsukiji Little Theatre with the play "Julius Caesar," contributing to a plethora of genres including new theatre, kabuki, opera, musicals, and dance. He established the stage art department at the Actor's Theatre Company in 1953 and had a prolific career until his passing in 1967 at the age of 67.
Award Overview
The prize encompasses all forms of theatrical representations performed over a two-year review period, focusing on stage design, including sets, costumes, props, wigs, and makeup.
- - Grand Prize: Awarded for the best overall stage design performance.
- - Newcomer Award: Given to individuals within 10 years in stage design or for those under 40 years of age.
- - Encouragement Award: Granted to members demonstrating notable achievements in small-scale performances or educational settings under various constraints.
- - Special Award: Presented to individuals or organizations outside of the association that have significantly contributed to the research, education, and advancement of stage design.
The award ceremony is set for May 25, 2026, at the Kinokuniya Hall. This event promises to celebrate the creative contributions to the arts and inspire future generations in the realm of theatrical design.
Topics Entertainment & Media）
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