The Premier of KAGUYA: A Spectacular Immersive Performance Aboard ASUKA III

The highly anticipated premiere of "KAGUYA - かぐや -", an original performing arts piece produced by Hitohata, is set for July 21, 2025. This immersive show will take place in the newly constructed ASUKA III's Lumière Theatre, featuring 100 performances throughout the year, subject to the cruise schedule. The show promises a unique blend of digital art and dance, showcasing advanced holographic screens and LED visuals that transport audiences into a fantastical realm inspired by Japan's rich cultural heritage.

"KAGUYA" pays homage to "The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter," regarded as the oldest extant story in Japan from the Heian period. The performance artfully weaves themes of the moon, bamboo groves, the Milky Way, and traditional folding screen paintings, enveloping the audience in a tapestry of emotional beauty through moving choreography.

Overview of KAGUYA

- Title: KAGUYA - かぐや -
- Performance Period: From July 21, 2025, and running for an extended period.
- Venue: ASUKA III, Lumière Theatre (onboard the ship)
- Duration: Approximately 30 minutes

The creative minds behind KAGUYA include:

- Takaaki Higashiyama - General Producer
- Jun'ya Yamada - Director
- Takaki Nagao - Creative Director
- MIWA - Choreographer
- Kazu Nakagawa - Concept Director
- Noriya Hayasaki - Art Director
- Fumiya Takeuchi - Technical Director
- Naoko Masugi - Project Manager

About ASUKA III

ASUKA III, scheduled to set sail on July 20, 2025, is the largest Japanese-flagged cruise ship, boasting a gross tonnage of 52,265 GT, a length of 230 meters, and a width of 29.8 meters. With 381 cabins accommodating up to 740 passengers, it symbolizes the pinnacle of Japanese hospitality that ASUKA Cruises is known for.

The ship aims to offer a refined experience while celebrating Japan's culture through art and craftsmanship displayed onboard. With diverse entertainment options, including KAGUYA, ASUKA III combines traditional elements with modern luxury, promoting a unique cultural narrative while cruising the seas.

The Vision Behind KAGUYA

Higashiyama aims to create a multisensory experience that connects audiences with the narratives of Japan's past, utilizing cutting-edge digital technology merged with immersive artistry to redefine cultural storytelling.

Takaaki Higashiyama, the visionary behind this project, has produced various digital art experiences both domestically and globally, highlighting the use of projection mapping and immersive art in celebrations of Japanese culture. Under his leadership, KAGUYA promises to deliver not just a performance but an experience that transcends traditional entertainment.

Conclusion

As anticipation builds for the premiere of KAGUYA aboard ASUKA III, the fusion of technology and artistry promises to captivate audiences and bring a fresh perspective on Japanese folklore through a contemporary lens. The immersive arts experience not only reflects the beauty of cultural narratives but also sets a new standard for entertainment at sea, inviting everyone to embark on this enchanting journey starting July 2025.