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Engaging with Marine Issues through Comedy: The High School Umirakugo Contest

On December 14, 2025, the Shibuya Sorasta Conference in Tokyo became a vibrant hub of laughter and awareness at the High School Umirakugo Contest. This one-of-a-kind event, organized by the Umirakugo Association, aimed to address pressing marine issues through the art of traditional Japanese storytelling, known as rakugo.

The Vision Behind the Contest

The High School Umirakugo Contest is a culmination of the 'High School Rakugo Program,' which encourages students to creatively express their understanding of ocean challenges. This initiative is part of the broader 'Marine and Japan Project' led by the Nippon Foundation, focusing on fostering awareness about marine conservation among the younger generation.

Student Performances

Ten enthusiastic high school participants showcased their ingenuity and humor by performing original sea-themed rakugo pieces they developed over six months. Under the mentorship of professional rakugo storytellers and environmental scientists, these students tackled topics such as ocean pollution, rising sea temperatures, and marine life. The audience was captivated by their creativity, showcasing how humor can be an effective medium for serious discussions on marine conservation.

The atmosphere was electric, filled with laughter and applause as each student shared their unique perspectives. The performances not only entertained but also educated the audience on critical marine issues, making for a valuable experience.

Research Presentations

Following the rakugo performances, the 'Marine High School' students delivered research presentations on the same themes. Their presentations were not just lectures; they engaged the audience through interactive elements, including questions and quizzes, fostering a dynamic learning environment. Attendees actively participated, demonstrating a keen interest in understanding the seriousness of marine problems. The event sparked a desire among the audience to consider ocean issues personally, igniting discussions and inquiries about how they can contribute to marine conservation.

Awards and Recognition

The performances were evaluated by a panel of four judges, comprising professional rakugo performers and marine specialists, based on criteria such as expressiveness, entertainment value, research depth, and creativity. After a thorough assessment, the team from the Tachikawa Kashime team, represented by Kuriki Keisha and Kawai Yuka, received the Grand Prize for their compelling rakugo and presentation on microplastics and marine life.

Both Kuriki and Kawai expressed their gratitude for the experience, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and community in tackling environmental issues. Their insights resonated with the audience, highlighting the impact such initiatives can have on fostering a sense of responsibility and connection to marine environments.

Participants' Feedback

The contest left a lasting impression on its attendees. Many expressed their admiration for the students' efforts, noting the quality of their performances and how effectively they communicated important messages. Feedback included remarks about the educational value of the performances, with some parents noting their children were inspired to mimic the high school participants. The diversity of responses ranged from surprise at the engaging nature of the event to appreciation for introducing rakugo to new audiences.

Event Details

• - Event Name: High School Umirakugo Contest
• - Date: December 14, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:15 PM
• - Location: Shibuya Sorasta Conference, Tokyo
• - Program:

1. Students' Rakugo and Research Presentations
2. Special Performance by San'yūtei Asachiku
3. Award Ceremony

• - Participants: 10 students, 5 from rakugo and 5 from marine studies, alongside professional performers and judges.

This event demonstrates that combining traditional arts with contemporary issues can create engaging platforms for conversation and action on marine conservation. The Umirakugo Association continues to play a pivotal role in bringing awareness to ocean issues through innovative educational initiatives.

To learn more about this exciting project, visit the Umirakugo official page.