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The Spotlight of Popular Entertainment: Celebrating Makoto Matsui's 40th Anniversary!

Aiming to celebrate the illustrious 40 years of his performing arts journey, a special performance featuring the renowned Makoto Matsui is set to take place on August 2-3, 2025, at the Asakusa Public Hall in Tokyo, Japan. This highly anticipated event, hosted by MAKOTO Co., promises to be a grand showcase of Matsui's extraordinary talents that have captivated audiences for decades. Tickets are currently available on Kanfetti, operated by Long Run Planning Inc., based in Shinjuku, Tokyo.

The Essence of Matsui's Artistry

Makoto Matsui, who began his theatrical career at the young age of 25 by founding the Gekidan Makoto theater troupe, is celebrated not only for his stunning performances but also for embodying the richness of Japanese cultural heritage. Dubbed the “Living Hakata Puppet” for his mesmerizing female roles, and compared to the legendary Kazuo Hasegawa for his leading male performances, Matsui has mastered a multitude of genres throughout his career.

Matsui first achieved significant acclaim when he successfully debuted as a leading actor at the Chunichi Theatre in 2000. Since then, he has starred in performances at many prestigious venues such as Meiji-za, Misono-za, and Shinkabukiza, delivering enthralling shows that elegantly blend tradition with modern appeal. His repertoire includes classic period dramas like “Yukinojo Henge” and “Otoko no Hanamichi”, as well as large-scale ensemble battles such as “Daisatsujin: Orochi”, showcasing his versatility as a performer.

In addition to his mastery of traditional theater, Matsui has starred in innovative and contemporary works including the four-person play “Taisho Yotsuya Kaidan,” the Shakespearean adaptation “Antony and Cleopatra,” and engaging musicals like “ALICE.” Furthermore, he is prominently featured in numerous TV dramas, including a notable role as Uesugi Kenshin in the NHK historical drama “Fūrin Kazan.” Recently, he has expanded his creativity by taking on roles as a playwright, director, and choreographer.

Program Highlights

The upcoming performance is carefully structured to showcase Matsui's remarkable skill set across multiple acts:
1. Act One: A special selection of Kayo dance performances – “IKI”
2. Act Two: A heartfelt theater piece titled “Ofuku’s Marriage Story”
3. Act Three: A dazzling review entitled “Makoto’s Version of Flower, Elegance, and Dance”

Synopsis of “Ofuku’s Marriage Story”

Meet Ofuku, a kind-hearted young woman living in the mountains of Echigo. After losing her parents, she has been raised in solitude, often bullied by villagers. Her compassionate sister Ogin and she live a quiet life in a mountain shack. One fateful day, the innkeeper of a century-old establishment, Otaru, along with her son Seizaburo, returns from Edo after a long apprenticeship with plans to develop their family's inn. Upon witnessing Ofuku’s diligence and robust spirit, Seizaburo is immediately smitten, exclaiming, “I want to marry that girl!”

Event Details

The Makoto Matsui Special Performance celebrating his 40th anniversary will take place from August 2-3, 2025:

• - Venue: Asakusa Public Hall, 1-38-6 Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo, Japan
• - Cast Members Include: Matsui Makoto, Hattori Mako, Okamoto Atsuko, and many more talented performers spanning a diverse array of roles.

Schedule

• - August 2 (Saturday): 11:00 AM / 4:00 PM
• - August 3 (Sunday): 1:00 PM

Note: Venue opens 45 minutes prior to the performance.

Ticket Prices

• - S-Seat: ¥9,500
• - A-Seat: ¥7,500

Tickets are reserved seating and tax included. Please note that admission is strictly prohibited for children not yet in school.

For more details and to purchase your tickets, visit the Kanfetti Ticket Website. Experience the grandeur and artistry of traditional Japanese theater with Makoto Matsui on this momentous anniversary celebration!