#Japan #Tokyo #Yui Masayuki #Ryuzanji #Avant Garde

Experience the Revival of a Masterpiece: 'Yui Masayuki'

Good news for theatre enthusiasts! Due to overwhelming demand, a second performance of the celebrated play 'Yui Masayuki' is scheduled for September 11th at 19:00. This show is part of a series presented by the Ryuzanji Office in partnership with Zamza Asagaya, which aims to explore the roots of contemporary avant-garde theatre.

A Closer Look at the Production

The production runs from September 8 to September 13, 2026, at Zamza Asagaya, located in Suginami-ku, Tokyo. Tickets are available through Confetti, operated by Long Run Planning Co., Ltd. Ryuzanji Yoshio, an esteemed director known for leading avant-garde theatre in Japan for over five decades, will reimagine the iconic play by Kōryū Tōjūrō. This performance signifies a continuation of the exploration of freedom within the framework of avant-garde culture.

What is Avant-Garde Theatre?

Avant-garde theatre challenges established norms and conventions, cultivating a new sense of romance and freedom through rebellion and deconstruction. Born in the tumultuous 1960s, 'Yui Masayuki' represents a key piece in this movement, originally performed as a response to the societal tensions following the Olympics. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a chaotic era, striving to evoke feelings of escape and renewal.

The Themes of the Show

This production is part of a two-fold thematic exploration:

• - Exploring the Origins of Avant-Garde: The series includes two performances:

- Vol.1: “The Hunchback of Aomori Prefecture” by Shuji Terayama - concluded successfully.
- Vol.2: “Yui Masayuki” by Kōryū Tōjūrō - running from September 8.

• - Avant-Garde and Women, War: Curated performances focusing on gender and conflict in avant-garde contexts will also be part of this series.

The Significance of 'Yui Masayuki'

Originally staged in 1968 during a period of societal unrest, 'Yui Masayuki' quickly gained popularity for its radical themes and became a symbol of anti-authority sentiments. The work received significant attention, even being depicted in Nagisa Ōshima’s film 'Shinjuku Thief Diaries'. Now, it is making a comeback with a fresh perspective. The play's relevance today reflects the enduring nature of avant-garde theatre and its impact on cultural discourse in Japan.

Attend the Film Screening

To further celebrate Tōjūrō’s work, a special film retrospective is showcasing his contributions from August 19 to September 19 at Laputa Asagaya. This series presents seven of his most notable films that illustrate his powerful on-screen presence, along with his directorial debut, 'Ninkyō Gaiden Genkai Naka', which notably became the first film to receive an 'R' rating in Japan.

Join Us for the Performance

Here are the details for the upcoming shows:

• - Location: Zamza Asagaya, Tokyo, Suginami-ku, Asagaya North 2-12-21
• - Performance Dates: September 8-13, 2026
• - Performers: Including Matsukuma Tsurumatsu, Itō Hiroko, Sano Babichi, and more.
• - Ticket Price: 5,000 yen (tax incl.), with seating arranged on a first-come, first-served basis.

Tickets can be purchased through Confetti's official site, ensuring you get the chance to witness this groundbreaking revival. Join us in this exploration of dramatic heritage and the avant-garde spirit!