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The Concluding Performance of 'Katabui, 2025'

A Historic Journey Through Time

The final installment of the poignant 'Katabui' trilogy, titled 'Katabui, 2025', will be performed from November 28, 2025, to December 7, 2025, at the Kinokuniya Hall in Shinjuku, Tokyo. This performance marks the culmination of over five decades of storytelling focused on Okinawa's tumultuous history following World War II. Organized by ACO Okinawa in collaboration with Natori Office and co-sponsored by Kinokuniya Bookstore, this event is not to be missed.

A Retrospective of Okinawa's Struggles

The trilogy begins with 'Katabui, 1972', which depicts the first attempts of Okinawa to reintegrate with Japan, followed by 'Katabui, 1995', which explores the unification of Okinawans in response to a tragic incident involving a young girl. The final chapter captures the essence of Okinawa through the narrative of Takashi Sugiura, who experiences the depth of Okinawa's struggles across three pivotal decades.

In 1972, Takashi makes his first visit to Okinawa, feeling a profound pain for the circumstances faced by its people. Overwhelmed by his helplessness as a person from mainland Japan, the longing to share in their suffering ignites a desire to bring change through political action.

Fast forward 23 years to 1995, on a return visit to the island, Takashi finds himself grappling with personal failures while observing the unchanged plight of Okinawa. Yet, influenced by the collective spirit of the Okinawan people following a tragic event, he leaves with hope for a brighter future for both Okinawa and Japan.

The 2025 Vision

Now, in 2025, at the age of 75, Takashi revisits Okinawa, reflecting on how the land and its people have evolved over these fifty years. The story questions whether Okinawa's plight is merely seen as a distant storm by those in mainland Japan. This powerful narrative promises to provide insight into the emotional landscape of a region often overshadowed by political and historical discourse.

Recognitions and Awards

The previous performances of the 'Katabui' series have garnered numerous accolades: 'Katabui, 1972' received both the 10th Hayakawa Tragedy Comedy Award and the 26th Tsurya Namboku Drama Award, while 'Katabui, 1995' was nominated for three awards at the 32nd Yomiuri Theater Awards, highlighting its impact and significance in modern Japanese theater.

About Natori Office

Established in 1996, Natori Office has been instrumental in producing contemporary theater, dance, and films. The office has produced a multitude of modern works, including international collaborations and acclaimed performances in various genres. Its recent projects, such as the Palestinian theater performances and the modern Canadian play 'The Butcher', emphasize its commitment to cultural exchange and innovative storytelling.

Performance Details

Performance Name: Katabui, 2025
Dates: November 28, 2025 - December 7, 2025
Location: Kinokuniya Hall, Shinjuku, Tokyo
Cast: Masuki, Naoko Sato, Aki Mawata, Yu Ryo Tohmei, Nagisa Koja, Haruno Miyagi, and Eiji Yamashita
Direction: Yuko Naito

Ticket Information:
Tickets are currently available on the Confetti website, with prices set at 6,000 yen for reserved seating (including tax).
Visit the official site here and secure your tickets early to witness this remarkable theatrical journey that closes a vital chapter in Okinawa's narrative.

Schedule Overview

• - November 28 (Fri) at 19:00
• - November 29 (Sat) at 13:00 (Post-talk session)
• - November 30 (Sun) at 13:00 (Pre-talk session)
• - December 1 (Mon) at 14:00 (Post-talk session)
• - December 2 (Tue) at 19:00
• - December 3 (Wed) at 14:00
• - December 4 (Thu) at 14:00
• - December 5 (Fri) at 19:30 (Pre-talk & sign language interpretation)
• - December 6 (Sat) at 13:00
• - December 7 (Sun) at 13:00

Note: Doors will open 30 minutes before the performance start time. Late arrivals may have to sit in a different location from the ticketed seat.