#Japan #Tokyo #Alexandrite Stage #PRINCESS TOKUGAWA #Samurai Drama

Introduction

The anticipation is building for Alexandrite Stage Produce's latest historical drama, "PRINCESS TOKUGAWA," which will run from October 2 to October 8, 2025, at the iconic Sogetsu Hall in Tokyo. This production marks the climax of a trilogy that has captivated audiences through its vibrant portrayal of two remarkable sisterhoods: the Azai sisters from Japan's Warring States period and the Song sisters who significantly impacted modern Chinese history.

Background of Alexandrite Stage

Founded in 2017 by actor Daisuke Noguchi, Alexandrite Stage has established itself as a leading force in contemporary theater, continuously producing compelling works across various genres. Following "PRINCESS TOKUGAWA," the stage will present exciting adaptations of Seicho Matsumoto's works with "The Notebook of Black Leather" in early 2026.

The Tale of Two Sisterhoods

"PRINCESS TOKUGAWA" serves as the final installment of the Azai sister trilogy, perfectly blending historical context with emotional storytelling. This original narrative explores the lives of the three Azai sisters, who stand resilient amid the chaos of war, while intertwining their experiences with those of the Song sisters. The trilogy commenced with "PRINCESS TOYOTOMI" in August 2023, which introduced audiences to Chacha, the eldest sister, through the lens of her marriage into the Toyotomi family, with Sho Ayanagi expertly portraying the role of Yodo-dono. It continued with "PRINCESS KYOUGOKU," shedding light on the life of the second sister, Hatsuko, highlighting her time in the Kyogoku household.

Meet the Characters

In this concluding chapter, the narrative will predominantly focus on the youngest sister, Eiko, married into the Tokugawa clan. The production features an ensemble of talented actors, including Motoya Izumi reprising his role as Nobunaga Oda across all three series. Additionally, the cast comprises Seriru Oko as Yodo-dono, Sarinaka Soda as Hatsuko, and Ruka Kurata as Eiko. The show will also see the participation of notable actors such as Kayo Arano and Ichinose Issei, with Tokuma Nishioka providing voice narration, adding depth and richness to the presentation.

The Director's Vision

Daisuke Noguchi, who is both the producer and director, emphasizes the dramatic and universal themes embodied by the sisters, highlighting their struggles against societal constraints and the backdrop of male-dominated warfare. He believes that these women's stories are timeless and address the compassion, contradictions, and fervent love that bind us all, thus resonating with contemporary audiences. "I want to vividly represent the emotions associated with their despair, conflicts, and prayers, creating a relatable narrative for modern viewers," he asserts. The final script is a culmination of his gratitude towards the more than 100 actors involved, all contributing to sculpting the story of the Azai sisters.

A Theatrical Experience to Remember

This production seeks to combine dazzling performances and elaborate costumes designed by Shochiku, alongside live music performed by Eriko Nakagawa on the erhul and Masayoshi Tanaka on percussion. The goal is to encapsulate the essence of this pivotal historical moment, making it not only visually captivating but also emotionally stirring.

Cast Insights

Motoya Izumi shared his emotional attachment to the character of Azai Nagamasa, stating, "It's a unique journey to perform a single role over three years, and with the final chapter approaching, there's a sense of bittersweetness in the air. The audience will witness how the battles at Sekigahara connect with the Azai family in unprecedented ways, and I'm genuinely excited to portray this narrative."

Similarly, Seriru Oko expressed her enthusiasm for portraying Yodo-dono, highlighting the vital role the character plays in reflecting the interconnectedness between love and destiny in the story. "I hope audiences will experience the beauty and fragility of our tale through the lens of our characters' lives," she added.

Ichinose Issei's remarks regarding his debut in a historical context reveal his eagerness to delve into the emotional strength of the women portrayed. "This is an incredible opportunity to connect with the experiences of women in a tumultuous era. I look forward to sharing their struggles and triumphs with the audience."

Conclusion

Running from October 2 to 8, 2025, at Sogetsu Hall, "PRINCESS TOKUGAWA" promises an unforgettable theatrical experience lasting approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission. For ticketing details and further information, fans can visit the official websites of both the theatrical production and Alexandrite Stage. This is more than just a performance; it's a moving mural of resilience, love, and courage during a tumultuous chapter of our shared history. Prepare for a night of captivating storytelling, unforgettable performances, and a celebration of the indomitable spirit of the Azai sisters.