#Japan #Tokyo #Yusaku Matsuda #A Ballad at Midnight

Reviving the Fiery Spirit of Yusaku Matsuda

The much-anticipated original stage play, 'A Ballad at Midnight', crafted by the late Yusaku Matsuda as his final work, is all set to grace the stage from November 20 to November 24, 2025, at the Ueno Storehouse in Tokyo. This compelling piece, initially premiered in 1978, returns with fresh direction as well as a vibrant cast, keeping Matsuda's spirit alive. With guidance from his daughter, Miyuki Matsuda, and direction from Tetsuo Nose, who has deep ties to Matsuda, this rendition promises to captivate audiences anew.

The narrative unfolds in 1978, focusing on Toru, a young man from the Tohoku region who moves to Tokyo. His journey begins when he encounters George, the charismatic leader of a biker gang, and his girlfriend Hakuran, sparking a life filled with excitement yet intertwined with personal struggles and dark pasts. As the story progresses, Matsuda's signature themes of violence, identity, and drugs emerge, creating a thought-provoking and thrilling experience.

Key Cast Members

• - Kouki Tokuda as George: Standing tall at 186cm, Tokuda is an actor and model currently featured in the new musical 'Starmyu.' His impressive background includes roles in popular dramas and films, as well as a notable presence in the world of sports.

• - Hibiki Yomori as Hakuran: An upcoming talent, Yomori started acting while in high school and has since made significant strides in theatre, radio, and CM production. Yomori's drive to merge art forms showcases her potential in the performing arts.

• - Yuta Funatsu as Toru: Standing at 182cm, Funatsu is an active member of a theatre company and continues to impress with his diverse stage and screen performances. His commitment to the craft is evident as he balances roles both in front of the camera and on stage.

Special Guest Appearances: On November 22, renowned director and actor Yudai Kaminishi will engage in a talk session, sharing his insights and experiences in the film industry.

Throughout the run, audiences can also look forward to after-show talks and exclusive live performances. Notable guests include Tatsumi Nikaido, Japan's top action director known for his work with filmmaker Takeshi Kitano, and Shoji Narawa, a bassist from the band Sheena & The Rokkets.

Theatrical Exhibitions: An exhibition dedicated to Yusaku Matsuda will take place in the theater lobby, displaying original posters from nearly all of his films, along with memorabilia. This unique collection offers fans a rare glimpse into Matsuda's illustrious career, enhancing the overall theatrical experience.

Event Information:

• - Show Dates: November 20 (Thursday) - November 24 (Monday, Holiday), 2025.
• - Venue: Ueno Storehouse, 1-6-11 Kita-ue, Taito-ku, Tokyo.

Ticket Information: Tickets are available for purchase through Confetti (operated by Long Run Planning Co., Ltd. in Shinjuku, Tokyo). Prices range from ¥3,000 for U18 tickets to ¥17,500 for premium seats with exclusive merchandise. Check the official website for further details: Confetti.

This revival of 'A Ballad at Midnight' promises not just to evoke nostalgia but to introduce Matsuda's compelling narratives to contemporary audiences. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness a powerful reimagining of a classic work infused with life, passion, and the unmistakable essence of Yusaku Matsuda!