Documentary of Agarisk: Behind the Scenes of 'Announce It! The Imperial Headquarters!'

Documenting Agarisk Entertainment's Creative Process

Agarisk Entertainment is taking a unique approach to their upcoming stage production 'Announce It! The Imperial Headquarters!' by releasing a documentary series on YouTube that chronicles the creative process behind the scenes. Starting today, viewers can expect a series of episodes showcasing the challenges and triumphs of creating a theatrical performance.

The documentary is helmed by Junya Hirata, a talented director known for his versatility across various genres. Hirata not only directs but also performs in the absurdist comedy unit Melt, allowing him to bring an intimate perspective to the production process. His proximity to the cast and crew will shed light on the grit and determination it takes to put on a show, making this documentary a must-watch for theater enthusiasts.

Agarisk aims to reveal how a small theater company constructs a performance from scratch. The documentary will encompass not just rehearsal footage but also highlights the creativity and hard work of the staff, the history of the theater group, and the struggles faced by the production team in the lead-up to the performance. As the documentary unfolds, viewers will witness the journey leading to the anticipated premiere of 'Announce It! The Imperial Headquarters!'. Expect candid moments and raw realities that challenge the glamorous perception often associated with theater.

In Hirata's own words, the first insight he gained while filming with Agarisk was surprisingly the struggles of the performers. Despite their dazzling exterior, the challenges of continuing to create theater are prevalent, especially at this crucial juncture. He sees it as his mission to convey the unvarnished truths that often go unnoticed, reaching out to audiences beyond just those involved in theater. He believes that anyone with a 'workplace' can relate to the experiences shown in the documentary.

About the Upcoming Production

'Announce It! The Imperial Headquarters!' is expected to be one of Agarisk's most significant productions to date. Originally premiered in 2019 at the Ekimae Theater, it attracted 1,200 attendees and won multiple awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor at the Kadoma International Film Festival in 2020. The script is penned and directed by Yu Tomisaka, the head of Agarisk Entertainment. Tomisaka is known for his work on the popular drama 'Human Resources' and continues to expand his influence beyond traditional theater.

Set against the backdrop of historical events in June 1942, the play presents a comedic yet poignant narrative about the struggles of a naval press officer who faces the aftermath of a significant military defeat. As they grapple with delivering the difficult news to the public, various opinions clash, and the pressure mounts. The thrilling yet humorous narrative sheds light on the policymaking processes during tumultuous times and satirizes the historical practice of distortion in public announcements.

The Cast

The performing cast includes several prominent figures from Agarisk Entertainment, such as Ryo Tsuwano, Jump Yabuki, and Kaito Asagoe, alongside various other non-affiliated actors to bring vibrancy to the production.

Production Schedule

The play will be staged from August 13–17, 2025, at the Theater Sunmall, providing a unique opportunity for theatergoers to witness this ambitious production firsthand.

Tickets

Tickets are available for pre-purchase and can be obtained through several platforms. Different seating options cater to a variety of budgets, ensuring that everyone's able to be part of this gripping theatrical experience.

Stay tuned for the documentary series on YouTube, as new episodes will continue to be released leading up to the performance. Don't miss the chance to see the behind-the-scenes excitement unfold and get a deeper understanding of the world of theater.