#Japan #Tokyo #Myrtle Arts #Children of the Sea #Silent Play

Myrtle Arts Unveils 'Children of the Sea 2026'

Myrtle Arts, a company renowned for giving voice to social issues often overlooked, will present its new silent play titled 'Children of the Sea 2026: I Will Not Forget' from July 10 to 12, 2026. The production will take place at the Tokyo Arts Theater, Theater West, located at Nishi Ikebukuro, Toshima, Tokyo.

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

A Commitment to Social Narratives

Myrtle Arts is dedicated to exploring events and social issues that society tends to forget. Each performance aims to raise awareness about these critical matters through powerful storytelling. This latest work is the brainchild of playwright and director Chong Wi-shin, a board member since the company's inception, combining creative efforts with Hashimoto Fusayo, a noted collaborator.

A Journey Through Time and Space

Originally premiered in Okinawa against the backdrop of the Okinawa War in 2017, 'Children of the Sea' has enjoyed performances in Tokyo and Taiwan. While plans for shows in Korea and China were derailed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Myrtle Arts has held onto a vision of presenting this universal theme of children living peacefully in a cruel world.

This new version aims to elevate the play's global relevance by focusing on children who currently suffer due to ongoing wars, highlighting the importance of remembrance and compassion for both lost children and current generations. The narrative will also address bullying, sharing the value of coexistence and acceptance with the audience.

A Unique Theatrical Experience

The play will feature a silent theater format, relying on expressive gestures rather than spoken dialogue. Elements such as live music, sound, and lighting will enhance the audience's sensory experience. Fusayo’s portrayal of the youth has always blended comedic and poignant moments, while Suzuki Hideki is known for his soft comedic touch.

Dancer Horinouchi Shinpei will bring a fresh approach to movement, integrating contemporary dance and traditional Japanese music into the performance. Musician Terada Eiichi will enhance the experience with live guitar performances.

In addition, a talented crew of professionals from the theater industry will come together for this ambitious project, from stage manager Yoshiki Hitoshi to scene designer Ikeda Hiroyuki and lighting designer Masuda Takayoshi. They aim to reflect the state of the world since the play's original staging, offering audiences an innovative interpretation grounded in current realities.

A Message from the Playwright

As Chong Wi-shin poignantly expresses, “We have returned to that sea once more. It’s been eight years since we last shared this experience during our performance in Taiwan. Yet here we are, coming back to the essence of our story and its memories.” He emphasizes the importance of revisiting the past and sharing these lessons with future generations.

Performance Details

Title: Silent Play 'Children of the Sea 2026: I Will Not Forget'
Dates: July 10–12, 2026

• - July 10 (Fri) at 7:00 PM
• - July 11 (Sat) at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM
• - July 12 (Sun) at 2:00 PM

Location: Tokyo Arts Theater, Theater West

Performers:

• - Hashimoto Fusayo
• - Suzuki Hideki
• - Horinouchi Shinpei

Musicians:

• - Terada Eiichi

Production Team:

• - Play and direction: Chong Wi-shin
• - Music: Terada Eiichi
• - Scenic design: Ikeda Tomoyuki
• - Lighting: Masuda Takayoshi
• - Sound: Fujita Akame
• - Choreography: Hirozaki Ulan
• - Costume design: Ota Masakuni

Ticket Information
Tickets are available for purchase starting from May 18, 2026, at 10:00 AM. The prices are as follows:

• - General: ¥5,000
• - Pair (2 people): ¥9,000
• - Senior (70+): ¥4,000
• - U25: ¥3,500
• - Disabled: ¥3,500
• - U12: ¥2,000
• - Parent-child (one adult & one U12 child): ¥5,500

For families attending with young children, the Tokyo Arts Theater provides childcare services; please check the theater's website for details.

Final Thoughts

Through 'Children of the Sea 2026', Myrtle Arts aims to evoke a range of emotions while inviting audiences to reflect on the state of the world today. This timeless story, told through the lens of a silent play, promises to be an unforgettable experience that resonates across generations.