Interactive Courtroom Drama 'Death Penalty' Set to Debut at Tokyo Agricultural University

Interactive Courtroom Drama 'Death Penalty'

The highly anticipated interactive courtroom drama "Death Penalty" is set to unfold at Tokyo Agricultural University on August 30, 2025. This unique experience invites audiences to step into the role of jurors, making decisions alongside the cast in a compelling narrative drawn from real-life courtroom scenarios.

Event Details

The performance will take place at the Academia Center of the Setagaya Campus, located at 1-1-1 Sakuragaoka, Setagaya City, Tokyo. The event, co-hosted by Tokyo Agricultural University and the general incorporated association Legal Park, promises a thrilling occasion for both students and the public.

Renowned lawyer and Legal Park representative Imai Hidetomo, who also serves as a visiting professor at the university, has played a pivotal role in bringing this project to fruition. Since its inception two years ago, the interactive drama has garnered popularity through performances in various cities, including Tokyo, Yokohama, and Matsumoto.

The program includes two performances: one for university students, faculty, and staff, and another open to the public. The public session will feature actress Keiko Takeshita in a motherly role, creating a poignant dynamic as she shares the stage with her real-life son, Manato Sekiguchi, who portrays the defendant.

Tickets are currently available through Confetti, operated by Long Run Planning, Inc. located in Shinjuku, Tokyo.

What is Interactive Courtroom Drama?

Interactive courtroom drama transforms traditional theater by allowing audience members to participate in the judicial process. Upon entering the venue, attendees are already immersed in the experience, as six jurors are chosen through a roulette draw. These jurors sit alongside the judge, questioning the defendant and witnesses directly. After the trial concludes, they will move to a different room to deliberate and render their verdict. Even those not selected can engage through an online platform to submit questions and participate in discussions.

Each performance's outcome and proceedings can vary drastically based on who attends, ensuring a fresh and engaging experience with every show.

The Jury System

Japan's jury system, established on May 21, 2009, allows ordinary citizens to participate in significant criminal trials. Jurors help determine a defendant's guilt or innocence and decide the sentence if found guilty.

As of 2025, the jury age limit has been lowered to include high school students over 18 years old, prompting discussions about the system's implications and encouraging citizens to consider their responsibilities should they be called for jury duty.

The interactive play is an effort to foster understanding and readiness among potential jurors.

Story Overview

Imagine yourself in the courtroom for a murder case that shook Ota City, Tokyo. The accused, Kenichi Sase, found himself in dire straits, struggling with debt. After being denied assistance by his former employer, he broke into their office one night, attempting to steal cash that was usually kept in the drawer. When Sase was confronted by his former boss, Sase retaliated with a knife, fatally injuring him. The horror escalated when the wife of his former boss arrived, and Sase killed her as well, stealing 120,000 yen in cash before fleeing. As jurors, how would you judge this complex scenario?

Highlights of 'Death Penalty'

- Each audience member participates as a juror in a realistic courtroom setting, deeply engaging with the drama.
- Jurors have the opportunity to directly question the defendant and witnesses, potentially altering the flow of the narrative.
- Attendees can share their thoughts and viewpoints in real-time via a dedicated chat on their smartphones, providing a unique and interactive experience.
- This immersive drama offers a valuable perspective on the thoughts and emotions jurors may encounter when summoned for real trials in the future.