Seijo High School Partners with Bungakuza for Education Collaboration

Partnership Announcement

Seijo High School, located in Shinjuku, Tokyo, and Bungakuza, a prestigious theater company also based in Shinjuku, have recently signed a collaborative agreement aimed at enhancing student education. This partnership marks a significant step towards integrating theater arts into the academic curriculum, benefitting students for their future careers.

Background of the Collaboration

Seijo High School has implemented a comprehensive educational initiative called “360° Career Exploration.” This program focuses on preparing students for their lives 20 to 30 years in the future. The term “360°” signifies a holistic approach to career guidance and personal development, promoting not only academic achievements but also inquiry-based learning and the cultivation of non-cognitive skills such as self-expression and leadership. The aim is to nurture women who can actively contribute to society.

On the other hand, Bungakuza, founded in 1937, is among Japan's leading theater companies, dedicated to creating captivating performances that resonate with contemporary emotions and experiences. The company has a rich history of developing talent in the performing arts, training actors and production staff who go on to make significant contributions to the industry. Their focus on fostering non-cognitive skills has proven effective, making them an ideal partner for educational initiatives.

Overview of the Partnership

Under this collaboration, Bungakuza will share its expertise in theater to enhance the non-cognitive skills of Seijo High School's students. A key focus will be on improving students' self-expression skills, particularly their ability to speak in front of an audience. This skill is increasingly important across various professions and is integral to the school’s educational activities. The involvement of Bungakuza is expected to span multiple areas, providing diverse support tailored to the school’s needs.

As a first step, starting from the 2026 academic year, Seijo High School will introduce an educational program titled 'Expression Program,' featuring a voice class. In this initiative, students will have the opportunity to learn from Bungakuza's talented director, Miyuki Ikuta, and actress Sonoko Soeda, participating in a year-long course. The program is designed to harness the power of the voice, equipping students with effective communication skills and the ability to convey their thoughts clearly, while also focusing on suitable body language in various contexts.

Additionally, exposing high school students to the world of theater is expected to broaden their understanding of theatrical culture. It will not only enhance their appreciation for performances but also spark interest in various roles within theater production, including acting and behind-the-scenes work.