#Japan #EPO #Edogawa #COCOLON #Bakuwara

Event Report: Second Inclusive Comedy Live 'Bakuwara'

On August 31, 2024, COCOLON hosted the second inclusive comedy live event 'Bakuwara' at COCOLON BASE in Edogawa, Tokyo. This event attracted 22 participants from six families, including those with children suffering from severe physical and mental disabilities, as well as other attendees, marking a wonderful success.

The Concept of Inclusive Comedy Live

Often, entertainment events are hosted in venues where wheelchair seating is positioned far from the stage, making it difficult for families with children with special needs to participate comfortably. Additionally, concerns over diaper changing facilities or medical device usage often discourage families from attending such events. To counter this, 'Bakuwara' was designed as an event that anyone—regardless of disability, age, or gender—could enjoy in a safe and welcoming atmosphere.

Organized by the non-profit organization EPO, which operates four facilities for developmental support and after-school services for children, COCOLON BASE has been equipped with the necessary environment for ease of access. Attendees did not have to worry about medical care facilities, power access for medical devices, or diaper changing stations.

Event Highlights

The event featured a range of acts, starting with Chapati from Kadash Stage, who kicked off the show with a performance that was enjoyable and engaging. The comic set a friendly atmosphere with their memorable lines, sparking laughter from the audience.

Next, Inuko Connection from Watanabe Entertainment took the stage, delighting the crowd with their distinctive character 'Namibaki Nurehiko' and entertaining them with an interactive call-and-response and fun convenience store gags, ensuring that laughter filled the room for both children and adults alike.

Following them was Kagoshima Taro, also from Watanabe Entertainment, who put on a lively quiz about sweet potato varieties while incorporating catchy music into his performance, keeping the crowd energized.

Lastly, Hotaruika Yamato (Watanabe Entertainment) performed solo due to his partner's cancellation that day. He delivered a set of baseball-themed jokes that had the audience roaring with laughter.

Special企画: 'Short Skit and Punchline Guessing Game'

A unique segment of the show included short skits performed by each comedian, where audience members and fellow performers were invited to guess the punchline. The setup featured a range of punchlines—some simple, others more challenging—to keep the audience engaged and laughing through the night.

Event Details

• - Title: Comedy Live 'Bakuwara'
• - Date: August 31, 2025
• - Time: Open at 12:30, Start at 13:00
• - Venue: COCOLON BASE, 7-21-16 Shinozakicho, Edogawa, Tokyo
• - Participation Fee: [Members] Adults 1000 yen, Children free; [General] Adults 2000 yen, Children 1000 yen
• - Organizer: EPO Non-Profit Organization [COCOLON]
• - Special Support: Suzaki Welfare Foundation

Future Developments

EPO plans to continue hosting events like 'Bakuwara' while also preparing various other events for families and supporters of children with severe disabilities this autumn. An exciting 'COCOLON Planetarium' event is scheduled for September 21, 2025, at COCOLON BASE.

COCOLON focuses on creating opportunities for families of children with severe disabilities to connect, learn, have fun, and exchange experiences through various community events. It aims to provide an environment that encourages interaction and information exchange for all caregivers and families involved.

For more details, visit the COCOLON website: COCOLON.

For inquiries about events, interviews, or partnerships, please feel free to contact us at:

EPO COCOLON Contact
Email: [email protected]

About EPO Non-Profit Organization

Since starting operations in 2016, EPO has been dedicated to supporting children with severe physical and mental disabilities through its various establishments and community saloons like COCOLON. With a commitment to creating inclusive environments, EPO continues to evolve its services and activities, ensuring families feel supported in their daily lives.

EPO Non-Profit Organization
Name: EPO Non-Profit Organization
Location: 7-21-16 Shinozakicho, Edogawa, Tokyo
Representative: Erika Saito
Established: April 2015
Core Services: Developmental support and after-school services for children with severe disabilities
Website: COCOLON