#Japan #Tokyo #Nakamura Hakugo #Le Théâtre Elysée #Contemporary Theater

Nakamura Hakugo's Dramatic Reading of "Motif"

Nakamura Hakugo is set to bring an enthralling performance of contemporary French theater to audiences in Japan. The play, titled "Motif," originally written by Guy Foissy, will be staged at the Roppongi Tricolore Theater by the Société Le Théâtre Elysée, promising a captivating experience that intertwines poetry and drama.

The performance utilizes a storytelling method gaining traction in Broadway musicals known as Poetry Reading. This innovative technique merges spoken word with music, allowing the audience to immerse themselves fully in the emotions and narrative arc presented on stage. From soft, subtle narration to uplifting rhythms, this art form enhances the delivery of the storyline and its underlying sentiments, evoking deep connections with the spectators. Similarly, the production by Le Théâtre Elysée aims to exemplify this captivating style.

The influential presence of piano accompaniment adds another dimension to the performance, creating a finely tuned ambiance that invites the audience to engage with every piece of dialogue and moment on stage deeply. Nakumara Hakugo, a prominent Kabuki actor from Tsuruoka City, Yamagata Prefecture, leads in the role of Sophia, intertwining traditional performance techniques with contemporary theater challenges. His artistic endeavors not only preserve Kabuki but also transcend genres, opening new doors for stage arts.

Joining him is Hatsuhi Amase, who brings her own unique flair to the role of Sophia’s counterpart. Hatsuhi’s illustrious career as a former Takarazuka Revue actress showcases her versatility, having performed in various mediums including stage productions and short dramas, thereby enriching the performance with her dynamic talent.

The artistic direction is helmed by Shiori Shiraki, whose impressive background includes a fruitful partnership with acclaimed actress Sayuri Yoshinaga and experience in producing numerous theatrical projects. Shiraki has received various accolades for her direction in notable productions such as “The Garden Trees and Four Stories” and “You Shouldn’t Have Said That,” with her latest work on "Motif" promising a similar level of acclaim. Furthermore, Shiraki is the initiator of the Japan-France Forum, recognized for her contributions to cultural exchange between the two countries.

Event Details

Show Title: "Motif" – Drama Reading
Original Work: Guy Foissy
Translation: Tetsuo Toshimitsu
Director: Shiori Shiraki
Starring: Nakamura Hakugo as Sophia, Hatsuhi Amase as her counterpart
Composer/Pianist: Ryuji Kaneda
Lighting Design: Kaito Arai
Production Company: Société Le Théâtre Elysée
Website: Tricolore Theater
Venue: Roppongi Tricolore Theater, 6-8-15 Roppongi, Minato City, Tokyo
Dates: May 22 (Friday) – May 24 (Sunday), 2026
*Note: Doors open 30 minutes before the performance; no entry for preschool-aged children.
Ticket Prices: Advance Tickets: 8,300 JPY / On-Site Tickets: 8,800 JPY
Tickets will be available starting March 17 (Tuesday) at 19:00 via the Votre Ticket Center. Further inquiries can be made at 03-3796-7771 during specified hours.

Please remember to keep the conclusion of the performance a secret after watching!

We invite you to join us for an evening filled with dramatic expression and profound storytelling, exploring the beautiful yet haunting narratives that Foissy’s "Motif" has to offer.