New Theater Project Celebrates Shuji Terayama's Legacy with Unique Performance

Celebrating Shuji Terayama's Legacy Through a New Theater Initiative

A groundbreaking project aimed at nurturing the next generation of Japanese theater creators is set to celebrate the 90th anniversary of renowned playwright Shuji Terayama. The performance of 'Blind Man's Letters: Shanghai Edition' by the avant-garde company PSYCHOSIS will take place from July 24 to July 30, 2025, at ZAMZA Asagaya in Tokyo. Tickets will go on sale starting May 23 at 10:00 AM through the Confetti ticketing service, effectively marking the project's launch.

The Japanese Theater Development Project, aimed at supporting emerging theater companies established less than 15 years ago, has selected PSYCHOSIS as one of its key representatives for 2025. This company has made a name for itself with bold productions, including the surreal 'DGURA MAGRA' and the chilling 'TSUYAMA30', which narrates the haunting tale of the Tsuyama Massacre. They will continue this legacy with the second rendition of Terayama's works, following 'Epidemic Chronicles,' which was performed in 2023.

The promotional materials for this show, featuring illustrations by manga artist Kentaro Ueno, have already stirred buzz online. The design, created by the director Rika Morinaga, captures the unsettling essence of the production. In keeping with their commitment to inclusivity and innovation, all roles will be filled through open auditions, resulting in a diverse cast showcasing various talents and backgrounds.

Leading the performance will be Kaito Kunisaki, portraying the character of the young detective Yoshio Kobayashi, who wanders the Shanghai concession blindfolded. The enigmatic woman thief, known as the Black Lizard, will be portrayed by Nozomi Nagano, while Kyouko Fukuchi takes on the role of the manipulative Akechi Kogorou. The talented Ikku Asakura, who is also a playwright, will appear as the family tutor, adding an interesting layer to the character dynamics.

One of the unique qualities of PSYCHOSIS lies in its meticulous integration of music and theater, with Hiroyuki Nagashima and his band Dowser responsible for the musical score. Expect various genres such as techno, jazz, ambient, rock, and acid house to intertwine with the narrative, enhancing the viewer's experience through a rich auditory landscape.

Ticket Sales and Special Promotions

Tickets will officially go on sale through Confetti starting May 23 at 10:00 AM. Among the anticipated offerings is the LIMITED TICKET, priced at ¥7,400, which includes priority admission and a novelty T-shirt featuring Ueno’s artwork. Due to high demand and limited availability, orders for this ticket type must be placed by June 22 at 11:59 PM, ensuring attendees receive their T-shirt in time for the performance.

Attendees sporting all-black attire will receive a random postcard featuring visuals of the cast, creating a united front as the theater transforms into a darkened space reflecting the themes of the performance.

Performance Details

'Blind Man's Letters: Shanghai Edition' will be held at ZAMZA Asagaya and promises to be an extraordinary event for both theater enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Performances are scheduled for:

- July 24 (Thu) 19:00
- July 25 (Fri) 14:00 / 19:00
- July 26 (Sat) 14:00 / 19:00
- July 27 (Sun) 14:00 / 19:00
- July 28 (Mon) 14:00 / 19:00
- July 29 (Tue) 14:00 / 19:00
- July 30 (Wed) 14:00

Ticket Pricing:

- LIMITED TICKET (with T-shirt) – ¥7,400 (includes shipping)
- ADVANCE TICKET – ¥4,300
- ADVANCE RSV TICKET (day-of payment) – ¥4,500
- STUDENT RSV TICKET – ¥3,000
- DOOR TICKET – ¥5,000

In the spirit of Terayama's vision, this production aspires to challenge perceptions and leave a mark on the cultural fabric of contemporary Japanese theater. Join this exciting journey as PSYCHOSIS brings to life a memorable tribute to a literary giant.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit Confetti's official site.