#Japan #Nishinomiya #Dragon Quest #Ballet Dragon Quest #Sadamoto Hamada

Experience the Magic of 'Ballet Dragon Quest'

In a groundbreaking fusion of classical ballet and the beloved RPG universe, the Sadamoto Hamada Ballet Foundation will present "Ballet Dragon Quest" on August 1 and 2, 2026, at the Hyogo Performing Arts Center in Nishinomiya. This performance promises to be a captivating experience as it intertwines the enchanting music of Dragon Quest, composed by Koichi Sugiyama, with the grace and storytelling charm of ballet.

This unique ballet production, originally premiering in 1995 by the Stardancers Ballet, has enchanted audiences for years with its innovative storytelling approach, combined with more than 50 revivals. Now, the Sadamoto Hamada Ballet Foundation makes its mark in history as the first group other than Stardancers to present this beloved work, generating significant buzz among fans and newcomers alike.

A Star-Studded Cast

The show will feature prominent dancers from the Kansai region, with Keiho Hohmura from the Hohmura Yutai Ballet taking on the role of the Dark Lord, and Takayuki Yamamoto, a distinguished dancer awarded the Purple Ribbon Medal in 2016, portraying the Sage. With such formidable talents gracing the stage, the performances on these two days are not to be missed.

The narrative, rooted deeply in the world of the game, will be showcased through the unique physical expressions found in ballet and the stirring orchestral arrangements performed live. This creative project aims to entertain and engage a diverse audience, appealing to both ballet lovers and the fanbase of Dragon Quest. Special tickets are available for children in middle school and under, ensuring it's an ideal family outing for the summer vacation.

An Array of Memorable Musical Pieces

Designed to be an auditory treat, the production will feature 41 pieces crafted by Sugiyama, including iconic tunes from Dragon Quest III to V such as the March from Dragon Quest V, the Coliseum from Dragon Quest IV, the Wedding Waltz from Dragon Quest V, and more. To honor the score, the performance will be conducted by Daisuke Nagamine, with the Biwako Winds Orchestra bringing each note to life, creating a striking backdrop for the dancers to convey their tales of bravery and heroism.

Sugiyama expressed his long-held admiration for ballet music, which significantly shaped his identity as a composer. In his own words, he wishes that through this ballet, fans of Dragon Quest would come to appreciate the beauty of ballet and vice versa.

A Hero's Journey

The story follows the White Hero, who embarks on a quest to rescue a princess abducted by the Dark Lord and his minion, the Black Hero. Throughout his journey, aided by mystical beings and forming new alliances, the White Hero faces formidable challenges, leading to an intense climax at the Demon Castle. The show is sprinkled with quirky characters, such as the lovable Weapon Merchant and a whip-wielding Warrior, ensuring an entertaining spectacle for viewers of all ages.

Cast Highlights

• - White Hero: Shunsei Goto

- Hailing from Fukuyama City, he began ballet at age three and has garnered notable awards throughout his career.

• - Black Hero: Keisuke Komori

- A graduate of the prestigious Dutch National Ballet Academy and a prominent figure in the Japanese ballet scene.

• - Sage: Takayuki Yamamoto, a principal dancer of the New National Theatre Ballet.
• - Dark Lord: Keiho Hohmura, an acclaimed dancer from the Hohmura Yutai Ballet.

This performance showcases the finest talents in the Kansai ballet scene, promising a remarkable two-day event packed with drama, elegance, and cultural richness.

Event Details

Sadamatsu Hamada Ballet Foundation presents "Ballet Dragon Quest"

• - Dates: August 1, 2026 (15:00 performance, doors open at 14:15); August 2, 2026 (14:00 performance, doors open at 13:15)
• - Venue: Hyogo Performing Arts Center, KOBELCO Hall
• - Ticket Sales Start: March 1, 2026
• - Price Range:

- SS Seats: ¥11,000 (includes signed program)
- S Seats: ¥9,000 (¥6,000 for under 12)
- A Seats: ¥7,000 (¥4,000 for under 12)
- B Seats: ¥5,000
- C Seats: ¥3,000

• - Age Restrictions: No entry for pre-school children.

This event not only celebrates a fusion of iconic gaming and classical arts but builds upon a legacy of cultural exchange, bringing joy to a multifaceted audience. Join us as we dive into this enchanting adventure of music, dance, and storytelling!

For more information, visit Sadamatsu Hamada Ballet Foundation or contact: 078-861-2609 / [email protected].