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A Tribute to Tsuguharu Foujita: A New Play

Celebrating the 140th anniversary of Tsuguharu Foujita's birth, the upcoming play titled "Tsuguharu Foujita: The White Darkness" will be staged at the Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre from March 19 to March 24, 2026. As a beloved Japanese painter known for his unique technique and contributions to the art world, Foujita's life story is both captivating and complex.

The Journey to Paris

Foujita's journey began when he left Yokohama for Paris, aiming to become a genuine artist beyond the confines of Japan. Once in Paris, he encountered a whirlwind of diverse artistic styles, struggling to adapt to the unfamiliar landscape of art. Just as he started to find his footing in a city full of inspiration, World War I broke out, dramatically altering the lives and works of many artists, including Foujita.

A Tale of Two Eras

The play focuses on two pivotal periods of Foujita's life: his successful Parisian years from 1913 to 1929 when he established his signature technique of "milky skin" and the later war era from 1938 to 1945 when he returned to Japan and created impactful war paintings, including works like "The Fall of Attu Island." This narrative of contrast highlights how the chaos of war influenced his artistry.

Understanding War Paintings

War paintings serve as historical records, often used for military propaganda and morale-boosting. In the early stages of World War I, young artists took it upon themselves to depict the realities of war through their unique lenses. However, by 1938, the military began to exploit these works more systematically through exhibitions aimed at increasing newspaper sales. The play intricately weaves together Foujita’s experiences with his interactions with newspaper reporter Sumiki Yoshikazu, illustrating his involuntary involvement in this cultural upheaval.

A New Production Teeming with Talent

In a nod to the play's significance, the role of Foujita will be portrayed by renowned actor Tetsuro Ishibashi. The artistic direction will take a fresh approach thanks to set designer Kenichi Toki's abstract vision, while Rie Nishihara will design costumes that reflect the historical weight and vibrancy of the era.

The new direction places special emphasis on one of the most critical lines from the script: "Your war paintings are a self-portrait of the masses. When viewed, they make us aware of our intoxication with war." This powerful sentiment echoes throughout the performance, enhanced by revisions in the pageantry to more accurately express the painter's subconscious struggles.

Join the Celebration

As we approach 2026, a year marking Foujita's 140th birth anniversary, the production aims to delve deeper into what drove Foujita to create war paintings. Audiences are invited to witness this compelling narrative, bridging history, art, and war through a powerful theatrical lens.

About the Indian Elephant Theatre Company

Founded in 2003 by playwright and director Atsuto Suzuki, the Indian Elephant Theatre Company strives to create theatre that transcends boundaries through imaginative storytelling. Keeping the motto, "Play transcends borders," the company aims to produce work that transforms the perceptions of audiences as they leave the theatre.

Production Details

• - Title: Tsuguharu Foujita: The White Darkness
• - Dates: March 19 - March 24, 2026
• - Venue: Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre, Theatre West, 1-8-1 Nishiikebukuro, Toshima City, Tokyo

Cast

• - Tetsuro Ishibashi (Literary Company)
• - Michiko Sano (Indian Elephant Theatre)
• - Yu Saito
• - Youko Goto
• - Masashi Nishijo
• - Renkin Kiyama
• - Kazuhiro Shiina
• - Miyuki Sasa
• - Kenji Kono
• - Nobuhiko Tokunaga
• - Ryo Morimoto
• - Kazuma Inoue (It's Forリーズ)

Staff

• - Writer/Director: Atsuto Suzuki
• - Set Design: Kenichi Toki
• - Costume Design: Rie Nishihara
• - Sound Design: Yuki Saito (Québec)
• - Lighting Design: Kazuo Miyano

Tickets are currently on sale through Confetti (operated by Long-run Planning Corporation). Don't miss this chance to experience an evocative portrayal of Tsuguharu Foujita's complex legacy through the theatrical arts.

For ticket purchases and more information, visit Confetti.