#Japan #Tokyo #Kurumizawa Shin #Macbeth #MyrtleArts

A New Stage Production Navigating the Dark Side of Psychiatry

In a groundbreaking theatrical venture, playwright and psychiatrist Kurumizawa Shin is set to debut his latest work titled 'Macbeth's Call: The Names of the Forest Women'. This production is slated to run from October 9 to October 13, 2025, at the Theatre MOMO located in Nakano, Tokyo. The play, directed in collaboration with Kenji Azuma, aims to shine a light on the often overlooked, troubling aspects of modern psychiatric practices through a lens of Shakespearean influence.

Unveiling the Performance

Organized by the non-profit Myrtle Arts, this play promises to engage audiences with its unique narrative and exploration of mental health issues. Tickets are available now through Confetti, operated by LongRun Planning Co., Ltd., which is based in Shinjuku, Tokyo.

Thematic Exploration

Kurumizawa draws parallels between the historical figures depicted in Shakespeare’s works and the realities of contemporary psychiatric care. In Macbeth, the presence of witches symbolizes those who harness the power of nature to heal. These women, revered for their abilities to craft remedies from plants and listen to the ailing, were ultimately labeled as witches—outcasts feared and marginalized by society.

In this production, Kurumizawa weaves a tale that resonates with the systemic issues present within today's mental health system, which has faced increasing scrutiny for human rights violations. Azuma's direction seeks to give voice to the marginalized, uncovering the darkness that often clouds the journey of those contending with mental illness.

Synopsis of the Play

The narrative unfolds in a secluded valley that houses a psychiatric hospital, constructed during Japan’s economic boom of the 1960s. Patients in the institution live in isolation from the outside world, as the hospital director remains keenly aware of societal trends, focusing instead on profit.

The story intensifies with the return of a nurse named Okada, who was previously involved in a tragic incident that resulted in a patient’s death, labeled as an accident. Upon returning to her former ward, she encounters three other female nurses, leading to a riveting exploration of their intertwined destinies and the haunting lines between life and death. The intricate script invites audiences to reflect on the deep-seated fears and the harsh judgments faced by those deemed to be mentally unwell.

Performance Details

• - Title: 'Macbeth's Call: The Names of the Forest Women'
• - Venue: Theatre MOMO, 3-22-8 Nakano, Tokyo
• - Dates: October 9 (Thu) - October 13 (Mon, National Holiday), 2025
• - Ticket Prices: General admission at 4,500 yen, Pair tickets at 8,000 yen, Senior tickets (70+) at 4,000 yen, U25 tickets at 3,500 yen (all seats are free seating, tax included).

Performance schedule also includes post-show talks on select dates, further engaging attendees in discussions about the themes presented.

The Company Behind the Art

Myrtle Arts, the organization behind this theatrical production, was founded with the intent to create original works that transcend commercial limitations. Spearheaded by a team of talented writers and artists, including playwrights Kei Kitamura and Yeon Hee Jeong, as well as Kurumizawa Shin, the organization strives to tackle social issues through unique storytelling techniques. By collaborating with evolving talents, Myrtle Arts aims to consistently produce compelling narratives that resonate with contemporary audiences.