#Japan #Tokyo #Musical #Theatre #Liebe

The Celebration of Love through Music

The theatre company Gekidan Mu is making waves in the musical scene with the announcement of the revival of their acclaimed production titled "Liebe: The One Schumann Loved." This musical, originally performed as their debut production, has been nominated for the prestigious Musical Awards TOKYO under the category of Best Work (for venues with less than 500 seats). The revival is set to take place at the Echo Theatre in Ebisu, Tokyo, from January 22 to February 1, 2026.

About the Musical

The unique aspects of this musical lie in its groundbreaking direction—no microphones or amplification are used, allowing actors to deliver their performances purely, with raw emotion. The powerful narrative crafted by the playwright, combined with the overwhelming expressive abilities of the cast, left audiences in tears during the original run. Both critics and viewers praised it as "the legendary debut work of Gekidan Mu."

Now, the musical returns, bringing back the emotional journey of Clara Schumann, with live vocals, piano performances, and the addition of a violin for an unparalleled immersive experience. Expect the theatre to resonate with heartfelt love stories as the narrative unfolds, making for a truly unique production.

Cast and Characters

The cast features a remarkable ensemble of actors, all set to portray the myriad of characters central to the story. Clara, a gifted pianist, will be performed by two talents—Saho Aono and Shio Kimi, who both bring unique interpretations to the role. Saho Aono is known for her performances in "RENT" and other musicals while Shio Kimi has recently gained attention in various voice acting roles.

Roberto Schumann is interpreted by Daisuke Ise and Toshi Sakakihara. Ise has made a mark in productions such as "1789: The Lovers of the Bastille" and will bring depth to the character of Schumann alongside Sakakihara, who is known for his performances in stage adaptations of anime and games.

Johannes Brahms, who spent his later years with Clara, is entrusted to Haruka Hasegawa and Daisuke Iso. Hasegawa has appeared in musicals like "Beautiful" and brings to life the legacy of Brahms, blending classical music with poignant storytelling.

The supporting cast includes a talented array of performers, such as Ayaka Umeda, Saki Yamamoto, and many others, ensuring that every character in Clara's life is represented with authenticity.

Storyline Overview

Set in the 19th century, the story of "Liebe" unfolds against the backdrop of Clara's strict upbringing under her father Friedrich Wieck. Clara, a gifted pianist, begins to gain recognition as a female musician during a time when it was rare. Her budding romance with her father's pupil, Roberto Schumann, faces fierce opposition from her father, leading to a dramatic courtroom battle to prevent their marriage. This rich, emotional backdrop sets the stage for a narrative woven with historical truth.

Performance Details

The anticipated run of the musical will comprise 22 performances overall, making it a must-see event for musical theatre lovers. Each performance presents an opportunity to experience the heartfelt journey of Clara and Roberto as they navigate the trials of love and music, encapsulating the essence of the Romantic era.

Tickets will become available to the public starting December 6, 2025, through various ticketing platforms. Special previews and early ticket sales will be announced shortly, ensuring fans can secure their seats at this remarkable production.

Casting Comments

The cast members have expressed their excitement and gratitude regarding their participation in this emotional musical journey. Saho Aono remarked on the significance of her role and her ambition to channel Clara's struggles and triumphs through music. Similarly, the male leads, Daisuke Ise and Toshi Sakakihara, are eager to bring their interpretations to life, promising powerful performances that will resonate with audiences.

As the rehearsal process begins, expectations are high for this revival of "Liebe." With fresh energy from a new ensemble and the spirit of love and artistry, Gekidan Mu aims to deliver a magical experience that will captivate audiences once more.

In conclusion, don't miss out on this opportunity to witness a unique piece of original Japanese musical theatre. The powerful story of love, sacrifice, and the healing power of music awaits you in 2026.

Event Summary

• - Production: Gekidan Mu Op.5 Musical "Liebe: The One Schumann Loved"
• - Written/Directed: Takaya Okamoto
• - Music: Masato Kamata
• - Choreography: Aya Tomita
• - Venue: Echo Theatre, Ebisu
• - Dates: January 22 – February 1, 2026
• - Performances: 22 performances total
• - Tickets: Pre-sale starts December 6, 2025. Details to come on official channels and ticket websites.