#Japan #Musical #Okayama #Harold!

A Joyful Return of 'Harold!'

The eagerly anticipated 8th Okayama Children’s Future Musical, titled "Harold!", is set to take place on September 22 and 23, 2026, at the Okayama Future Hall. Organized by Kabaya Ohayo Holdings Inc. and Life Design Kabaya, this performance will welcome young talents back to the stage after a successful run at the Osaka-Kansai Expo.

A Celebrated History

The previous performance held in August 2025 drew over 3,000 attendees across three full-capacity shows, making it a memorable experience for both the cast and the audience. The musical not only performed on a prestigious international stage but also gained commendations from spectators both locally and internationally. This upcoming show is set to embody the voices of those who want to see the story of 'Harold!' retold, shining brightly once again from Okayama to the world.

Auditions Open for Young Performers

Starting March 16, 2026, auditions are now open for children aged between 8 and 18, residing or originating from Okayama Prefecture. The organizers are particularly interested in candidates who express a strong passion to perform, regardless of prior experience or nationality, emphasizing that the enthusiasm to participate is more important than skill level. This project not only encourages a sense of accomplishment among the children but also provides them with an opportunity to explore their potential.

What is 'Harold!'?

Launched in 2017 under the belief that nurturing talent contributes to community development, 'Harold!' has blossomed from its inaugural performance in 2018 to its eighth edition this fall. Over two months, kids from Okayama work closely with professional actors and staff, coming together to achieve a common goal—creating a captivating musical. This experience is viewed as crucial in fostering future leaders in Japan, instilling values such as teamwork, the importance of expression, and the satisfaction of completing a project.

A Heartwarming Story

The plot of 'Harold!' revolves around children discovering a vibrant world filled with nature and AI robots, navigating their growth through delightful encounters. It aims to present a narrative that resonates with themes of discovery and connection, making it a timeless tale for audiences. The performance is backed by collaborations with local government entities, media partners, and businesses, all dedicated to supporting children's growth while showcasing the charms of Okayama.

Performance Details

• - Title: Harold!
• - Synopsis: A heartwarming story of children’s exploration through encounters with nature and an AI humanoid robot.
• - Dates: September 22-23, 2026
• - Venue: Okayama Future Hall (5F, Aeon Mall Okayama)
• - Hosted by: Kabaya Ohayo Holdings Inc. and Life Design Kabaya
• - Supported by: Okayama Prefecture and various local educational committees among others

Audition Information

Auditions for the cast and staff will take place on June 6 and 7, 2026. Here is a brief overview of the audition details:

• - Roles Available:

- Junior Cast: 3rd grade to Middle School 3rd year
- High Teen: High School 1st to 3rd year
- Minori Role: 6th grade to Middle School 3rd year
- Harold Role: 6th grade to High School 3rd year
- Child Staff: Middle School 1st year to High School 3rd year
- Volunteer Support: 18 years and older

• - Eligibility Requirements:

- Candidates must live or have roots in Okayama
- All genders and experiences welcome
- Must be able to attend rehearsals within Okayama City

• - Rehearsal Period: Typically every weekend and public holiday from July 18 to September 19, 2026

Participants can express their interest via the official web form available at Okayama Kodomo. Audition results will be announced on June 22, 2026.

The Creative Team

The creative team is made up of proficient professionals, including author Riko Sakaguchi, director Tomotaka Sugimoto, music director Naoyuki Shibata, and esteemed choreographer Takahiro Hasegawa. Each brings a wealth of experience to the production, ensuring a vibrant and engaging show that captures the imaginations of young and old alike.

With the support of local businesses and institutions, the Okayama Children’s Future Musical aims to grow further as a cultural gem for the region, empowering children and executing truly extraordinary performances.