Emotional Stage Production 'Tsuki no Umi 2025'
The acclaimed play 'Tsuki no Umi 2025,' produced by the theater company bion, is set to return after its previous successful runs in 2016 and 2018. This heartfelt production addresses the pressing issue of caregiving in Japan and is scheduled for performances in three cities: Tokyo, Utsunomiya, and Toyama. The play is based on a narrative that resonates with many, capturing the essence of family, life, and the challenges of caring for an elderly parent.
Performance Schedule
- - Tokyo Performance: August 20, 2025 (Wednesday) - August 31, 2025 (Sunday) at Theatre BONBON, Nakano, Tokyo
- - Utsunomiya Performance: September 5, 2025 (Friday) - September 7, 2025 (Sunday) at Tochigi Prefectural Cultural Center
- - Toyama Performance: September 12, 2025 (Friday) - September 13, 2025 (Saturday) at Toyama Prefectural Small Theatre ORBIS
Tickets are currently available through Kanfetti, managed by Long Run Planning Co., Ltd. However, please note that tickets for the Utsunomiya performance are not available through Kanfetti.
About the Play
Through the lens of caregiving, the story follows Shizuka Mochizuki, who leaves her job and dreams of marriage behind to care for her aging mother, who suffers from dementia. As the challenges escalate, Shizuka faces the heart-wrenching decision to transfer her mother to a nursing home. Haunted by guilt, she strives to make their final moments together enjoyable. Complicating matters, her mother expresses a deep yearning to see her long-lost brother, Yutaka, who she believes has returned from the dead. This emotionally charged narrative dives into themes of family, compassion, and the intricacies of life.
Artistic Team
The music, entirely composed of original pieces by the renowned composer Yuuki Hayashi, who has made a name for himself across various media in Japan, will enhance the emotional landscape of the play. Hayashi's portfolio includes popular dramas and animations, making his involvement a reason for heightened expectations among the audience. Furthermore, the play will feature projections of 'Hoshi no Suna,' a companion piece to 'Tsuki no Umi,' offering viewers additional layers of connection to the narrative.
Actor Highlights
The performances will showcase the talents of notable actors like Junichi Uchiura from Toyama and Akiko Iwase, who also serves as the producer, scriptwriter, and star of the production. Each actor brings a personal touch to their roles, with the theme of caretaking resonating strongly among the cast, especially within the local communities.
Social Importance
With Japan experiencing a rising elderly population, the issue of caregiving is becoming increasingly critical, with projections suggesting that by 2025, the number of individuals requiring caregiving support could reach 7.17 million. This play aims not only to provide a source of empathy and insight for those currently navigating caregiving challenges but also to spark interest in pursuing careers in the caregiving field. To further engage the audience on these topics, an after-talk session will feature caregiving professionals sharing their experiences and insights.
The themes explored in this performance promise to resonate deeply with audiences, sparking both laughter and tears, ultimately leaving spectators with a sense of warmth and reflection on the value of life.
Tickets and More Information
For more details, visit the official website at
bion and their X account at
bion X account. 2025 marks a new chapter for this production, promising to rekindle emotional responses and foster discussions around caregiving, family, and what it means to be human.
Experience the journey of love, loss, and hope that 'Tsuki no Umi 2025' offers, and be part of a crucial conversation on caregiving in today's society.