A New Interpretation of Shakespeare's King Lear
In the vibrant world of theatre, few names shine as brightly as Yokoichi Masaru. With the announcement of his sixth rendition of Shakespeare's monumental play,
King Lear, excitement is brewing as audiences anticipate another captivating performance at the Mitsukoshi Theatre in Tokyo. This marks his eighth collaboration with Shakespeare since beginning with
King Lear in 2016, which has included renowned works such as
Macbeth and
Twelfth Night.
Scheduled for September 4th to 8th, 2025, this production promises six performances along with a preview show kicking off on September 4th at 1 PM. Last year’s staging received overwhelming acclaim, prompting the decision for a reprise.
This production of King Lear will showcase Yokoichi Masaru's unparalleled talent, who will assume the roles of the main actor, scriptwriter, and director. The performance’s script is based on a translation by Yukishi Odajima, a culturally influential figure and a respected literary critic recognized for his contributions to English literature.
Ticket Sales and Special Merchandise
Fans can mark their calendars, as early ticket sales will commence on June 29, 2025, at 10 AM, lasting until July 1st. Each early-bird ticket purchase includes a special commemorative photograph not available at the venue counter, making it a treasure for collectors. General ticket sales will open on July 12, 2025.
Ticket prices are categorized as follows:
- - SS Seat (includes program booklet): ¥11,000
- - S Seat: ¥9,500
- - A Seat: ¥7,800
- - Preview Show (September 4, 1 PM): ¥7,000 (limited seating)
Special note: The SS seats and preview show tickets are exclusive to J-Stage Navi, which handles several aspects of ticketing. For inquiries, patrons can contact J-Stage Navi during weekdays from 12 PM to 6 PM.
A Starkly Talented Cast
The cast assembled for
King Lear 2025 features names that resonate across Japanese theatre. Alongside Yokoichi Masaru, Takashi Tamura brings depth to the character of Kent. In his personal reflections, Tamura expressed how participating in Shakespeare's plays has been a challenging yet deeply fulfilling journey, marking his third foray into Shakespearean roles. Amidst his delight in taking on varied characters, he humorously shares his struggles with memorizing long lines, a common plight of actors engaged in Shakespeare’s verbose works.
Beyond the star power of these main actors, a formidable supporting cast enhances the production's strength, including performers such as Akiko Isshiki, Itsumi Oosawa, and various talented actors contributing to creating an unforgettable adaptation of this 400-year-old work.
Director’s Insight: Yokoichi Masaru
At 84 years old, Yokoichi Masaru infuses new life into
King Lear, demonstrating reverence for a play that continually resonates through generations. As he reflects, “
King Lear has a special place in my heart, urging me 'You can still perform!' as I age.” The seasoned actor is invigorated by the youthful talent surrounding him, proving that the world of theatre knows no age limits.
Anticipation builds as
King Lear 2025 prepares to intertwine powerful dialogues and profound themes of deprivation and family dynamics that Shakespeare originally captured. As each performance approaches, Masaru assures the audience a unique interpretation, promising a must-see spectacle.
Conclusion
For theatre enthusiasts and Shakespeare lovers alike,
King Lear 2025 at the Mitsukoshi Theatre is set to be an unmissable experience. With the deep-rooted partnership between Yokoichi Masaru and Shakespeare’s works, the stage is primed for another illustrious portrayal. Ensure you secure your tickets, and witness how this timeless tale unfolds through the lens of one of Japan’s celebrated talents.
Stay updated by visiting the official show website and T.Y. Promotion's social media platforms for the latest news regarding performances, cast insights, and ticket availability.