#Tokyo #Rakugo #Young Performers #Public Recommendation Cup

The 2025 Public Recommendation Cup for Young Rakugo Performers

Starting in March 2026, the Public Recommendation Cup for Young Rakugo Performers promises to be an exciting event for enthusiasts of this traditional Japanese art form. Organized by Kyodo News, this competition aims to support and showcase the talent of emerging Rakugo artists. The event will take place from March to May 2026, with tickets going on sale on January 15, 2026.

This championship, now in its fourth year, has been made possible with the support of the Public Promotion Association in Tokyo. Elaborating on the details, 15 young Rakugo artists, each with less than 15 years of experience, will be competing. These participants were selected based on recommendations from various theaters and Rakugo events across the country, further enriching the competition's diversity.

The contest structure includes three preliminary rounds, where five artists will compete at a time, followed by an exciting new twist this year. Specifically, three artists who place second in each preliminary round will have the opportunity to compete in a