The theatrical world is buzzing with excitement as the production company, Nihon Eiga Housou Co., prepares to unveil its premium reading play, 'Onihei Hankachou: Honjo Sakurayashiki'. Scheduled for January 29 and 30, 2026, this adaptation promises to bring to life the beloved characters from Shotaro Ikenami's iconic work, 'Onihei Hankachou' (published by Bunshun Bunko).
The newly announced cast boasts a remarkable selection of voice talent, including Daisuke Namikawa, Nobuhiko Okamoto, Tomokazu Seki, Akio Otsuka, Toyonari Yuki, Masahiro Yamanaka, Yoshiyuki Hirai, Haruka Tomatsu, Yoko Hikasa, and Kikuko Inoue, among others. Their participation adds an impressive touch to this already star-studded production.
The show's protagonist, Heizo Hasegawa, commonly known as 'Onihei', will be portrayed by Kenyu Horiuchi, who leads a cast that includes numerous fan-favorite voice actors. This iteration promises not only to entertain but also to delve into rich narratives woven with historical elements and humanity's various complexities.
Performances will take place at the Asakusa Public Hall in Tokyo, with three scheduled shows: an evening performance on January 29 and two performances on January 30, one in the afternoon and another in the evening. Fans should mark their calendars, as tickets will go on sale starting November 1, 2025, at 10 AM, available on a first-come, first-served basis.
For those looking for an extra special experience, a limited number of premium tickets are up for grabs. These tickets sell for 30,000 yen and include unique perks like a script signed by the cast and an exclusive meet-and-greet session hosted by Kenyu Horiuchi. Additionally, an after-talk event featuring selected cast members will occur after each performance, allowing audience members to engage with their favorite voice actors in a special setting.
The character roster includes:
- - Heizo Hasegawa (the chief of the Fire and Thief Police): Kenyu Horiuchi
- - Young Heizo: Daisuke Namikawa / Nobuhiko Okamoto
- - Samanosuke Kishi (Heizo's close friend): Tomokazu Seki / Akio Otsuka
- - Young Samanosuke: Toyonari Yuki / Masahiro Yamanaka / Yoshiyuki Hirai
- - Ofusa (a woman both Heizo and Samanosuke were once infatuated with): Haruka Tomatsu / Yoko Hikasa
- - Heizo's wife, Hisayo Hasegawa: Kikuko Inoue / Kaori Yamazoe
- - Hikoju (Heizo's associate from his unruly past): Wataru Takagi
- - Chudai Shima (the head assistant): Sadaaki Mitsuishi
- - Kaneko (the maid at the dress shop where Ofusa is to be married): Akiko Shimanaka / Chifuyu
- - Ogawa and Ume-kichi (thieves pursued by Heizo): Katsuhiko Sasaki
- - Jubei Matsuoka (Heizo and Samanosuke's mentor): Kazuhiko Inoue
- - Narration: Takayuki Nakao
The appeal of this premium reading play lies not only in its thrilling narrative but also in the stellar cast's ability to evoke deep emotions reflective of the story's rich context. Fans of the original work and newcomers alike can expect an unforgettable theatrical encounter filled with suspense and remarkable artistry. In addition to the engaging storyline, discussions following performances will allow audiences to gain insights into the characters and stories presented, enhancing the overall experience.
Tickets are available through ePlus and Lawson Ticket, with prices set at 15,000 yen for S seats and 10,000 yen for A seats, all including special pamphlet gifts for attendees. For more information regarding ticket purchasing and the event itself, please visit the official website dedicated to 'Onihei Hankachou'. With 19 talented voice actors coming together for this production, 'Onihei Hankachou: Honjo Sakurayashiki' is set to be an event you won’t want to miss!