Sato B-Saku Takes on French Comedy in Upcoming Play Family…Rehearsal

Famed actor Sato B-Saku is stepping into the world of French comedy with the highly anticipated play titled "Family…Rehearsal." This production, under the NLT Produce banner, is set to run from September 3 to September 13, 2026, at Nakano's The Pocket Theater in Tokyo, Japan. Tickets are currently available on the Confetti website, managed by Long Run Planning Co., Ltd., based in Shinjuku, Tokyo.

The Story

"Family…Rehearsal" is intriguing as it deftly intertwines humor with poignant life lessons. The play presents a unique narrative wherein actors portray both themselves and the concept of “family.” Audiences will witness a fascinating interplay of lies and truths, as well as the blurring lines between reality and illusion, which trigger unexpected moments of laughter and bittersweet reflection.

Originally adapted from a film in France, the narrative has taken to the stage, promising a delightful yet slightly surreal experience for adult audiences. Sato B-Saku, taking on the lead role, leads this exploration of familial connections and emotional complexities.

Overview of the Plot

The story revolves around Pierre-Henri, a man with a limited life expectancy, who embarks on a remarkable endeavor to reconnect with a family he lost. His plan involves hiring actors to depict his deceased family members, thus creating an 'ideal family' for a week. What starts as a performance gradually blurs into reality, leading the actors to act as his real family, confronting hidden truths, regrets, and emotional scars. This riveting journey raises questions about whether this is a chance to make amends or merely a new facade. As truths intertwine with lies, unexpected turns in life manifest.

Cast Insights

The play features an ensemble cast, all of whom shared their reflections on the production. Sato B-Saku expressed his desire to portray a character who tries humorously to rectify the unrepairable aspects of life. "Life is a singular experience without rehearsals, yet the urge to redo past mistakes drives our actions," he stated with enthusiasm, viewing this French comedy as a delightful challenge in his artistic journey, even at 77 years old.

Tetsuro Ishibashi, reflecting on the themes of love and existence, shared the importance of seizing moments of affection, hoping the audience feels the same joy he finds in the story. Hiroyuki Kaiho, playing William, described his character as an outsider amidst the family's dynamics yet humorously involved in discussions that resonate with many commonplace office scenarios.

Natsuko Izumi commented on the vigorous rehearsal process, fully engaged in a team effort to create something enjoyable for the audience. Meanwhile, Daiki Nanbo mentioned the play's exploration of contradictions within human nature, examining deeper emotions through his dual roles of Richard I and Richard III.

Ayaka Umeda, set to portray Elizabeth, remarked on the character's charm and complex emotions, expressing excitement about presenting Elizabeth's nuanced personality to the audience. Himika Akane reflected on her personal growth parallel to the story, connecting with the play's themes of family and self-discovery, encouraging audiences to ponder their own familial relationships after leaving the theater. Lastly, Haei Hinagata expressed her honor in playing Sato B-Saku's wife, eager to tackle themes of family and closure with the cast.

Performance Details

Play Title: Family…Rehearsal
Performance Period: September 3 - September 13, 2026
Venue: Nakano The Pocket Theater, Tokyo, Japan

Cast

- Sato B-Saku
- Tetsuro Ishibashi
- Hiroyuki Kaiho
- Natsuko Izumi
- Daiki Nanbo
- Ayaka Umeda
- Himika Akane
- Haei Hinagata

Staff

- Writer: Gilles Dyrek
- Director: Hitoshi Uyamano
- Translation and Assistant Director: Yu Yamaka

Performance Schedule

- September 3 (Thu) 7 PM
- September 4 (Fri) 2 PM
- September 5 (Sat) 1 PM, 5 PM
- September 6 (Sun) 1 PM
- September 7 (Mon) 2 PM
- September 8 (Tue) 7 PM
- September 9 (Wed) 2 PM
- September 10 (Thu) 7 PM
- September 11 (Fri) 2 PM (audio/accessible)
- September 11 (Fri) 7 PM (subtitled)
- September 12 (Sat) 1 PM (audio)
- September 13 (Sun) 1 PM

An audible guide and subtitles will be available on select dates. Please note that due to filming, cameras will be present in the audience on September 8.