#Japan #Tokyo #Theater Performance #Kazama Motofumi #Karaoke Man

Kazama Motofumi's New Solo Play: A Comedy on Caregiving

The renowned solo play series by Kazama Motofumi, known as the "Karaoke Man" series, is preparing for its ninth installment with the upcoming production titled "Karaoke Man: The Wandering Helper". Scheduled to take place from March 25 to March 29, 2026, at the Kokumin Kyousai Coop Hall in Shibuya, Tokyo, this performance promises to delve into the challenges of Japan's super-aged society with a unique blend of humor and depth.

Starting in 1997, the "Karaoke Man" series has made its mark on Japanese theater, showcasing Kazama's substantial talent and the innovative storytelling that resonates with audiences. The series received accolades in 2003 for a trilogy performance, and in 2010, a five-part culmination amazed audiences with a record-breaking 5 hours and 15 minutes of performance time. After a lengthy hiatus, the series made a triumphant return in 2021 with "The Return of Karaoke Man", much to the delight of the fans.

In this latest edition, audiences will be introduced to Akira Ushiyama, a caregiving helper. His journey through Japan as he navigates the realities of taking care of the beloved yet ailing former actress suffering from dementia is sure to evoke both laughs and contemplations on aging and caretaking.

Synopsis

In "Karaoke Man: The Wandering Helper", Ushiyama embarks on a tour across the country while working as a caregiver. His latest assignment is to assist a once-great actress who has retired and is now living with dementia. This unexpected role leads him through unimaginable challenges as he attempts to provide joy and comfort to the aging star.

Recap of Previous Installments

The evolution of Ushiyama's character is depicted throughout the previous plays:

• - Part One: Karaoke Man - Ushiyama is an average salaryman, grappling with life’s problems, including work and relationships. His solace comes from karaoke sessions.
• - Part Two: In the Sky of Travel - After an incident at a sauna, he experiences amnesia, reminiscing only fragmented memories of his youth.
• - Part Three: Alone - With no memories of his family or profession, he joins a street theater troupe.
• - Part Four: One More Cup of Coffee - An unexpected journey leads him to escape with a theater manager, leading to unexpected affection.
• - Part Five: Beyond the Mist - Following a tragic accident, he interacts with a homeless man and resolves to reunite with his family.
• - Part Six: The Return of Karaoke Man - In his 70s, he moves back to Tokyo, facing societal challenges amid a pandemic.
• - Part Seven: The Last Romance - Engaged in social causes and politics, he struggles with personal and familial turmoil.
• - Part Eight: Karaoke Man: Mission Impossible - A mission in Bangkok to rescue a former subordinate leads him to a series of outrageous events.

Performance Details

Kazama Motofumi's Solo Play: “Karaoke Man: The Wandering Helper”

• - Performance Dates: March 25 (Wednesday) to March 29 (Sunday), 2026
• - Venue: Kokumin Kyousai Coop Hall, 2-12-10 Yoyogi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
• - Cast: Kazama Motofumi
• - Direction and Script: Ryuji Mizutani
• - Schedule:

- March 25, 19:00 ☆
- March 26, 14:00
- March 27, 14:00
- March 28, 14:00
- March 29, 14:00 ☆ Post-performance talk available
- Doors open 45 minutes before showtime.

• - Ticket Pricing: General admission ¥6,000 (tax included)

Tickets are currently available through Confetti, operated by Long Run Planning Co., Ltd. in Shinjuku, Tokyo. For further details and to purchase tickets, visit the official website at Karaoke Man Performance.

Kazama Motofumi's latest adventure in this acclaimed series promises to be an unforgettable experience filled with laughter, insight, and a poignant look at the challenges faced in the current societal landscape of Japan.