#Japan #D.LEAGUE #Kochi #Kochi Prefecture #CHANGE RAPTURES

CHANGE RAPTURES Awaits Crucial Championship Rounds in D.LEAGUE

The professional dance team CHANGE RAPTURES, managed by PERF Inc., is preparing for the decisive ROUND.6 and ROUND.7 in the Japan-based D.LEAGUE, a league that features competitive dance as a professional sport. Since signing a collaborative agreement with Kochi Prefecture in February 2023, CHANGE RAPTURES has been actively engaging with the community through various initiatives, including workshops, local events, and educational outreach.

Strengthening Community Ties

The partnership between Kochi Prefecture and PERF aims to foster sports promotion through dance, invigorate the local community, support sustainable coexistence, and enhance education. The team has organized multiple events centered on these themes, capitalizing on Kochi's rich cultural heritage, particularly its traditional dance form, Yosakoi, and exploring new forms of expression and connectivity.

Some examples of their community contributions include:

• - Collaborative efforts with Yosakoi stakeholders, including joint choreography development and cultural heritage support for younger generations.
• - Hosting workshops and conducting visits in the Shimanto area, focusing on children's dance instruction.
• - Involvement in local festivals and events that promote regional culture through performance.

These activities not only bridge cultural gaps but also create enriching experiences for both performers and local residents. This past season, CHANGE RAPTURES has witnessed an increase in local support, thanks in part to these initiatives.

Aiming for the Championship

With the aim of advancing to the Championship Round of D.LEAGUE, CHANGE RAPTURES currently sits in fourth place. The upcoming matches on March 13 (CYPHER ROUND) and March 14 (ROUND.7) are crucial for improving their ranking and securing a place among the top three teams, which qualifies for the final. The league is characterized by its multifaceted judging system that includes evaluations from judges, audience members present at the venue, and online viewers. As such, every round is highly competitive, with fan support playing a significant role in determining outcomes.

ITTON, the team leader of CHANGE RAPTURES, expressed, "We feel that awareness and support for our team have grown due to our activities in Kochi, and this encouragement is a source of power for us. Sharing joyful moments and passionate energy through dance with local residents and children strengthens our resolve to win in ROUND.6 and ROUND.7 alongside the people of Kochi."

CHANGE RAPTURES Previous Season Achievements

The D.LEAGUE, launched in Japan, is the only professional league dedicated to making dance a competitive sport. As of the current 2025-26 season, CHANGE RAPTURES ranks fourth in the league standings (as of March 2026) and achieved the team's highest-ever ranking of third in the previous season. This established their status among the top teams in the league.

About PERF Inc.

PERF Inc., headquartered in Minato-ku, Tokyo, operates the dance team CHANGE RAPTURES and joined the CHANGE Holdings Group in 2025. Through partnerships with local governments, PERF focuses on regional revitalization, dance education, and cultural promotion, particularly in collaboration with Kochi Prefecture, where they are actively involved in supporting Yosakoi culture and initiatives for children.

As CHANGE RAPTURES gears up for this significant competition, their commitment to the local community and the spirit of dance continues to inspire hope and excitement in the vibrant region of Kochi.